Over $375 in Free Bonuses if You Join My Watkins Summit Group Team by January 31, 2007

I'm planning to make 2007 my most successful year yet! So I'm sharing these special incentives with you! Start a Watkins Home Business.

Join Watkins and the Summit Group in January with any size starter kit, and you can get over $375 in free bonuses as you get your business rolling!

Part time income or full time career!

Early Bird Special: Join by January 2, 2007 for Extra Bonuses!

If you join Watkins and our Summit Group team by January 31, 2007 (at 6:00pm Central Time), you can take advantage of all of these benefits.

1. You'll immediately get a customizable e-associate website, for online retailing of Watkins products at no cost to you. The site is yours to use free through April 30, 2007 (that's a value of $124.80 US or $151.80 CN).

2. Earn $250 US (or about $285 CN) in gift certificates for Watkins products of your choice by achieving recommended sponsoring and sales by April 30, 2007.

3. If you submit your valid enrollment by January 2, you will qualify for our Early Bird bonus—you'll get four outstanding audio training CDs by leaders in our field. Value: $30

4. In addition to these special offers from Watkins and the Summit Group, I'm adding another bonus. Join my Watkins team with any starter kit and I'll give you a $20 Watkins gift certificate.

More details about these incentives here
http://www.livingwelltomorrow.com

~ Watkins is a work-from-home business that you can be proud of.
~ Totally flexible
~ Excellent earning potential
~ Top-notch products
~ Recognition for your efforts
~ Free training and free websites to help you succeed

This business can completely change your life for the better!

Four Watkins Business Starter Kits to Choose From

Watkins is a company with staying power, since 1868. When you join Watkins you have a choice of four starter kits.

• Business Introduction Package (#09712 US / #09715 Canada)
  $59.95 US / $69.95 Canada
  

  
  

• Good Tastings Kit (#77061 US / #77062 Canada)
  Retail Value—over $150 US / $200 Canada • Your Price—$99 US / $125 Canada
  

  
  The following two kits allow you to design your own Business Starter Kit
  
  New Watkins Associates can design their own Watkins Starter Kit by choosing the consumer products that will fill out their kit. When a new Associate purchases either the new Essential Business Starter Kit or the new Expanded Business Starter Kit he or she will receive a gift certificate for the Watkins products of his or her choice. Here are the new kits available to new Associates:
  

  
  

• Essential Business Kit (#09810 US/#09811 Canada)
  $169.00 US/ $219.00 CDN (Valued at $265.79 US/$349.90 CDN)
  

  
  Contents
  Business Introduction Package
  Gift Certificate $200.00 US/$250.00 CDN
  

• Expanded Business Kit (#09812 US/#09813 Canada)
  $286.00 US/$369.00 CDN (Valued at $430.74 US/$571.04 CDN)
  

  
  Contents
  Business Introduction Package
  Gift Certificate $300.00 US/$375.00 CDN
  E-Associate Package (online associate web site)
  

The kits and gift certificates will be sent out separately. Gift certificates can be used for products only (can’t be used for tax, shipping and handling, or business materials) and must be redeemed in one order.

Watkins will include a list of our most popular products with the gift certificates to help new Associates choose the products that will aid them in building their business.

Find our how to start a Watkins Home Business. Read our free, no obligation ebook.
http://www.livingwelltomorrow.com

Instant Cocoa with Marshmallows and Chocolate Chips

This mix recipe makes about 14 cups mix (enough for 42 servings).

7 cups instant nonfat dry milk powder
1 box (1 pound) confectioner's sugar
2 cups Watkins Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, sifted
2 cups powdered nondairy creamer
2 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup mini chocolate chips

Stir together the dry milk powder, confectioner's sugar, cocoa powder, and nondairy creamer in a large bowl. Mix mini marshmallows and mini chocolate chips in another bowl.

Divide cocoa mixture evenly between 7 pint jars. Mix marshmallows and chocolate chips with cocoa mixture or spoon marshmallows and chocolate chips on top of cocoa mixture.

Gift Idea
Pack up a jar of homemade cocoa mix with a mug and chocolate spoons.

Add tag to jar
For one serving, stir together 1/3 cup of the cocoa mix and 3/4 cup of boiling water in a large mug until the mixture is well blended and chocolate chips begin to melt. Serve warm.

Peppermint Cocoa Mix - Mix crushed peppermint candy canes with chocolate chips and marshmallows.

Triple-Chocolate Cookie Mix

Layer ingredients in a jar, then attach easy baking instructions with a festive holiday ribbon.

Makes quart jar of mix; 3 dozen baked cookies.

1 mason jar (1 quart)
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Watkins Baking Powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup Watkins Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/3 cup white baking chips

In medium-size bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In small bowl, blend remaining 1 cup flour and the cocoa powder.
Layer dry mix ingredients in jar: Spoon half of the flour-cocoa mixture into bottom of jar; press down to compact (a small spice jar works well). Spoon half of the plain flour mixture on top of cocoa mixture; compact. Repeat. Top with dark brown sugar and granulated sugar, compacting each layer. Place both kinds of chips on top. Close jar tightly. Store up to 2 weeks in a cool, dry place.

Attach a note to jar with cookie recipe

In large bowl, combine 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) cooled, melted unsalted butter with 3 eggs and 1 tablespoon Watkins Vanilla Extract. Stir in contents of jar just until mixed. Drop dough by rounded tablespoons, 2 inches apart, onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F for 12 to 13 minutes or until firm. Cool on sheet on wire rack for 1 minute. Remove cookies to rack; cool completely.

Recipe for Christmas Joy

1/2 cup Hugs
4 cups Love
1/2 cup Peace On Earth
2 cups Goodwill Toward Man
4 tsp Kisses
1 cup Special Holiday Cheer
2 tsp Christmas Spirits
1 Sprig of Mistletoe
1 Medium-Size Bag of Christmas Snowflakes

Mix hugs, kisses, smiles, and love until consistent. Blend in holiday cheer, peace on earth, Christmas spirits and good-will toward man. Use the mixture to fill warm hearts, where it can be stored for a lifetime. (It never goes bad!)

Serve as desired under mistletoe, sprinkle liberally with special Christmas snowflakes. It is expecially good when accomapnied by Christmas carols and family get-togethers. Serve to one and all.

Tips for A Successful Holiday Buffet

Here is an article from “HomeMadeSimple.com” about serving a holiday buffet your guests will applaud.

Serving Up a Brilliant Buffet

This is the season for entertaining, and we all know that buffet-style parties are easier to prepare for and manage than sit-down dinners for a larger group of guests. However, most of us struggle with basic questions: What are some easy, delicious foods that are not the “same old, same old”? How can I be sure that there will be something to please everyone? How much “stuff”—food, drink, ice—do I need to make sure everyone has enough? Relax! We offer you here a basic guide for entertaining large groups of people without losing your holiday spirit (or your mind).

Managing the Numbers

Probably the biggest worry for any hostess is running out of food or drink. Here is a basic guide to help you make comfortable calculations for your party guests.

• Prepare more food if you are having a buffet rather than a sit-down meal; guests tend to eat more from buffets. However, the more selections available, the less people will take of any one item because they want to taste everything.
  
• If you want to serve appetizers before the buffet, calculate three to five servings per person (have less if you want to be sure people will be hungry for the buffet!).
  
• For a buffet serving 25-30 people, a good basic menu includes two casseroles in 9″x13″ dishes (or one casserole plus meat—turkey, ham, beef), two salads (about three heads of lettuce per salad), rolls (one per person), and two to three desserts.
  
• Meat amounts can be tricky, but here is a general guide: for 25-30 people, have a fifteen- to eighteen- pound turkey, OR a six- to seven-pound boneless ham, OR a twelve-pound roast beef.
  
• For serving pasta, calculate about two ounces per person if it’s being served as a side dish or as one selection on a buffet table, about four if a main course.
  
• When planning beverages, know your crowd; in general, though, calculate about one drink per hour for each guest. For a party where guests will be standing/moving around a good deal, plan on four to five drinking cups per person. For ice, you’ll need about one pound for every four to six guests.
  

Food and Drink Ideas

Make as much ahead of time as possible—you want to enjoy your guests, not be stuck at the stove all evening! And don’t be afraid to take advantage of all the wonderful take-out options that are available; they can go a long way toward saving you time for other party preparations.

Try these ideas for a varied, simple, and delicious spread that’s sure to please any guest.

• Having a meat dish that does not have to be kept warm as the buffet “centerpiece” is usually a good idea—turkey, ham, or roast beef are good prepare-ahead choices, and can be sliced before being set on the table for easy service.
  
• Do you have a fondue pot, or know someone who would lend you one? Fondue is easy, fun, and a wonderful winter treat; if you can arrange for more than one pot, you can provide a mix of savory and sweet fondues for guests to enjoy. And after the pot contents are made, all you have to do is cut up a variety of dipping material—meat, vegetables, bread cubes, fruit, angel food cake—all of which can be prepared early in the day and stored for easy replenishment.
  
• Prepare (or buy) a variety of pasta sauces; heat and set out around a big bowl of cooked pasta for guests to try. Some suggestions: pesto, marinara, Alfredo. Encourage guests to mix—for example, a bit of Alfredo mixed with marinara makes a fantastic creamy tomato sauce.
  
• Pizzas made from refrigerated dough and various savory or sweet toppings make easy, delicious finger foods. Roll out a tube of refrigerated rolls and bake on a greased cookie sheet for about 10 minutes; top with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses and sliced jalapenos, pop back into oven until cheese is melted. Or spread cooled, baked dough with cream cheese; top with finely chopped broccoli and cauliflower, and shredded cheese. Bake a tube of refrigerated cookie dough in the same way; spread with cream cheese blended with confectioner’s sugar and a bit of vanilla, and arrange fresh, frozen, or canned fruit on top. Cut into small squares.
  
• For an easy and fun “theme,” focus on one kind of food—appetizers, desserts, fondue. Or, depending on your guests (number and preferences), have a theme buffet devoted to a specific ethnic food, such as Caribbean, Indian, or Asian.
  

Other Tips

• Avoid food that requires a knife for eating.
  
• If you serve a salad, provide tongs for serving rather than a spoon—easier for guests to manage with plates in their hands.
  
• Make sure you have enough oven and refrigerator space for preparations; if not, ask a neighbor if you may borrow some space.
  
• Arrange all the dishes you plan to use (including plates, utensils, etc.) on the table ahead of time to make sure there’s enough room for everything.
  
• Of course, you can always rely on a few close friends to supplement your table with their own creations.
  

Believe to Succeed in Network Marketing

Watkins is a network marketing company. To succeed in any network marketing company, the following progressive levels of belief must be developed to be successful.

• I believe in the integrity of the company I have affiliated with.
  
• I believe in the superior quality of the products/services I represent.
  
• I believe in network marketing as a business/marketing strategy.
  
• I believe that others' lives will be improved by this industry and the company and products I represent.
  
• I believe this company has a fair and unlimited compensation potential.
  
• I believe someone could succeed in this company if they worked hard, consistently, and did not quit.
  
• I believe that I will work this business hard, consistently and not quit.
  
• I believe I can succeed in this business.
  
• I believe I WILL succeed in this business.
  
• I believe in myself.

Having a strong system of belief is important because it is a self-fulfilling circle.

• Strong Belief leads to
  
• Self-Motivation, which leads to
  
• Consistent Business-Building Activity, which leads to
  
• Productive Results, which leads to
  
• Even Stronger Belief in what you're doing!

Learn more about Watkins and how to start a home based business Watkins

Holiday Shopping Guide

Wahms United is proud to present our second issue of the Holiday Shopping Guide, a free, instant download to help customers find the deals they need on the products they want for all their holiday gift giving!

Download the Holiday Shopping Guide Today!
Holiday Shopping Guide

Shop for Watkins products at my Watkins Online Store

Merry Christmas!

Wahm-Blog.com

Wahm Blog - The Ultimate Blogging Resource for Work at Home Moms is a blogging resource and directory dedicated to helping the work at home mom get started and succeed in the blogosphere.

Blogging is a great way for someone to get their “feet wet” online, without investing a lot of money, while they are learning to navigate their way through the web.

Wahm-Blog is not just a blog directory. They are an online blogging resource to help you become a better work at home blogger. They’ll be adding workshops and an online e-course, too. Stay tuned for the upcoming additions!

Each week, they’ll be featuring one of the listed blogs and registered authors, too! If you’re blog isn’t listed, get it in there now and become a registered author in our articles directory.

Wahm-Blog.com is owned and managed by Patty Gale, who has been successfully working from home since 2001.

Her company, Four O’Clock Publishing, LLC, is run from the corner office of her home.

The Spices of Life

Without thinking about it, you probably reach into your spice cabinet at least once a day. Hard to believe, but spices were once rare, expensive commodities. In fact, men went on quests in search of these elusive flavor enhancers (and we all know that one of those searches lead Columbus to the New World). Today, with the growing popularity of Mediterranean, Mexican, Tex-Mex, Cajun, Creole, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines, spices are more popular than ever. And happily, they are easily accessible. But we still consider spices precious indeed. After all, what would life—and eating—be like without a little spice? Spice up your life and your meals!

How to Use Spices

Keep these guidelines in mind when buying, storing and using spices.

• Always buy spices in small amounts.
  
• Most spices don't need refrigeration—you can store them in a cool, dark place (but keep them away from heat).
  
• However, some spices (especially red-colored ones like chili powder, cayenne pepper and paprika) should be refrigerated to prevent loss of color and flavor. You should also refrigerate or freeze oil-rich seeds such as poppy and sesame to prevent rancidity. And in hot climates you might want to put all your spices in the fridge to guard against infestation.
  
• Check spices twice a year for freshness—discard bottles which have little or no scent.
  
• Most spices will stay fresh for six months to a year. To help keep track of things, write the date on the bottle when you buy a new spice so you will know when it's grown old.
  
• Remember that whole spices stay fresh longer than ground. You might want to invest in a small coffee grinder, small food processor, pepper grinder or mortar and pestle for quick grinding.
  
• A great way to boost the taste and aroma of many spices is to toast them. Here's how: Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat until hot. Add spice; toast 2 to 5 minutes or until spice is fragrant and lightly browned, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Remove from heat and use immediately.
  
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices by adding them to your favorite dishes (start with a small amount, then add more if you like the result).
  

Basic Spice Glossary

Allspice
The dried berry of the allspice tree smells like a mix of cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg—but it’s a spice all its own. Use in baking, pickling and sausage.

Anise Seed
This close cousin to fennel seed has a subtle licorice-like flavor. Use in liqueurs, cakes and cookies.

Basil
Basil’s light licorice/clove/mint-like taste is important in most areas of the Mediterranean, but it is also highly prized in Thailand, where a similar variety is called “holy basil.” Blends well with all other herbs. Use in all Italian and tomato dishes, scrambled eggs, soufflés, omelets, Welsh rarebits, roast beef, pork or veal, meat pies, casseroles, and stews, herb stuffings, vegetable juices, seafood cocktails, tomato, orange, or butter sauces, French and Russian dressings.

Bay Leaves
The leaves of the bay laurel tree. The main sources are California and Turkey. Watkins uses Turkish bay leaves (also grown in surrounding countries), generally considered to be more flavorful than the larger California variety. Essential for soups, stews, poaching liquids, casseroles and sauces.

Cardamom
This relative of gingerroot is available ground or in pods of about 20 seeds. The sweetish, hottish flavor is popular in Scandinavian dishes as well as East Indian cooking.

Cayenne Pepper
Though technically an herb, fiery hot cayenne pepper is usually grouped with spices in the kitchen. Made from ground dried hot chilis, cayenne is popular in Mexican and Southwestern dishes.

Celery Seed
The fruit of the wild celery plant is sold whole, ground or mixed with salt. Its strong flavor is good in fish dishes and salads.

Chili Powder
Although many associate this product with Mexican cooking, chili powder originated in Texas for use in chile con carne. A salt-free, balanced blend of ground mild chile peppers, cumin, garlic and oregano. Use in chili, Mexican dishes, eggs, omelets, sauces, soups, cottage cheese, rice, meat, fish, cocktail sauce, gravies, stews, vegetables.

Cilantro
The leaves of the coriander plant, cilantro is also known as “Mexican parsley” or “Chinese parsley.” Its flavor is totally different from the seeds, which are used as a spice, mostly in curry powders. Cilantro is a popular flavoring herb and garnish essential to salsas, Latin, Indian, Middle Eastern and Asian dishes; great in vegetable dishes, with meats and fish, and most tomato dishes.

Cinnamon
An important baking spice, the dried bark of a member of the laurel family is sold whole and ground. It is especially delicious with apples.

Cloves
The dried flower buds of the clove tree are sold whole or ground and used in pickling spice, baked ham, mulled wine and baked goods.

Coriander Seed
From the coriander plant (a member of the parsley family), coriander seed has a slightly tart, citrusy flavor. It’s sold whole and ground. Try it in East Indian and Mexican dishes.

Cumin Seed
An essential spice with an assertive flavor, cumin is used extensively in Mexican cooking and is a main ingredient in prepared chili powder. Available whole or ground.

Curry Powder
A ground blend of as many as 20 spices, Curry Powder is one of the world’s oldest spice blends.
It originated in England and was designed to give the characteristic flavor of Indian curry cookery, which became popular during the British colonization of India. It has grown to be used as a single spice in Western kitchens, and is very popular in the Caribbean as well. Use generously in Indian and Caribbean curries, and sparingly in Western dishes such as eggs, deviled eggs, fish, shrimp, parsley, meats, vegetables, rice, French dressing, white sauce, fish chowders, soups, salted nuts, and sweet pickles.

Dill Seed
It wouldn’t be a pickle without this fruit of the dill plant. Sold whole, the seed flavors breads, salads and seafood.

Fennel Seed
The licorice-flavored seed of the fennel plant perks up pork, pasta, bread and seafood.

Five Spice Powder
This ancient and intriguing blend comes from China and Vietnam, where it has long been used
to add a warm flavor and mysterious fragrance to a variety of stir-fries and other dishes. Especially great for chicken, pork, and a variety of stir-fries. Contains Watkins famous Black Pepper and Cinnamon with other spices.

Ginger
Oriental cooking just wouldn’t be the same without this flavorful root. Ginger is grated and sliced and added to meats and vegetables. Ground, it’s used in baking.

Italian Seasoning
A traditional blend of Italian herbs and spices makes superb spaghetti sauce and main dishes. Add to plain tomato sauce to give authentic flavor to most pasta dishes; also great with meats and vegetables.

Marjoram
This member of the mint family is closely related to oregano; in fact, oregano is a wild version of marjoram. The gentler, sweeter marjoram is preferred in the cuisines of France and parts of Italy, as well as in traditional American dishes like corn chowder. Excellent with chicken and turkey, stuffings, vegetables, beans and bean soup, corn chowder, and most tomato dishes. Use in place of oregano for a milder taste, or combine with it for balance on pizza or in sauces. Also blends well with basil, thyme, and most Mediterranean herbs.

Mustard
The seed of the mustard plant is sold whole, ground or as a prepared condiment. Whole, the pungent flavor is used in East Indian dishes. The ground form seasons meats and salads.

Nutmeg
Nutmeg is the pit of the nutmeg fruit (part of the shell is another spice, called mace). A delicate spice, sold whole or ground, nutmeg is used in sweet and savory dishes.

Oregano
A wild variety of marjoram, although a bit stronger and with a pleasant bitter undertone.
Widely used in Greece and Italy, with a stronger, cruder version grown in Mexico.
Best known for its use on pizza; also excellent in pasta sauces, pork, veal, fish, vegetables, dressings, gravies, seafood, poultry, grilled tomatoes and all tomato dishes, white sauces, ground beef and pork, Greek, Italian and Mexican dishes, chili, egg dishes, and salads.

Paprika
A spice made from ground, dried peppers, paprika’s flavor ranges from sweet to incendiary. Sweet paprika is used mostly for coloring; the fiery hot sort is used in Hungarian dishes.

Parsley
This delicious, nutritious herb has a refreshing taste that goes extremely well with garlic, onion, lemon, and any herb. Although dried parsley has often been called flavorless, you’ll find ours to be a pleasant surprise. Add to butter sauces for meats, poultry, fish and vegetables, scrambled eggs, stuffings, soups, chowders, salads, and dressings.

Pepper
Pepper berries are grown on a vine. The same plant produces both white and black pepper—white peppercorns are just riper than black ones. Buy whole and grind for best flavor.

Poppy Seed
The mature seed of the poppy flower is sold whole and in paste form. Use in both sweet and savory baking.

Red Pepper Flakes
These crushed dried red chiles, mostly from cayenne-related varieties, are the famous table seasoning in pizzerias. Because they include the seeds, they are very hot. Highly versatile, and used in most cuisines throughout the world. Use in pickling, chowders, gumbos, pizza and spaghetti sauces, and in making sausage; also excellent for meats, seafood, eggs and egg dishes, soups, cheese dishes, sauces and gravies, vegetables and vegetable juices, curries, creamed dishes, souffles and croquettes.

Rosemary
The name “rosemary,” derived from Latin, means “dew of the sea”—appropriate because the herb thrives in the dry climate and salty sea spray of the Mediterranean shores. Its pungent minty/evergreen flavor is a favorite in Italy and Provence, especially in dishes simmered with wine, olive oil and garlic. At its best with roasted or grilled lamb, pork, poultry and game; also excellent with potatoes and vegetables, stews, marinades and breads. Lends a surprising twist to apple jelly and poached pears.

Sage
This Mediterranean herb got its name because of the ancient belief that it strengthened the memory and imparted wisdom. Dalmatian sage, the world’s best variety, comes from the area that is now Albania and Croatia. Excellent in poultry stuffing, especially with onion; its flavor and digestive properties make it perfect for pork, sausages, goose and other rich meats; also enhances risotto, chowders and tomato sauces.

Sesame Seed
One of the oldest spices, sesame seed is sold whole, or ground into a paste called tahini. Use in candy, baking and Middle Eastern and Oriental cooking.

Taragon
Originally native to Siberia, Tarragon is best known for its use in French cuisine; the very best tarragon is grown in France. Its bittersweet flavor is reminiscent of anise, and it is most widely used as a flavoring for vinegar. Complements chicken and fish dishes, lobster, beef and lamb, as well as salads and dressings, mustard sauces, and the classic béarnaise sauce.

Thyme
One of the great European culinary herbs, and perhaps our most versatile. Closely related to oregano, with a stronger, more balsam-like flavor that has made it a favorite far beyond its Mediterranean origins—from the British Isles to North America to the Caribbean. Excellent with meat, fish and poultry, tomato dishes, stuffings, stews and sauces, vegetable juice, clam juice, seafood cocktails, cream and cottage cheese spreads, clam and fish chowders, marinades, gravies, vegetables.

Adapted from CookingVillage.com

Shop for spices and herbs at Watkins

Watkins Gold Medal Sampler

The Gold Medal Sampler is our classic assortment of the three products that made Watkins a household name! Original Double-Strength Vanilla (2 fl. oz.), regular-sized Cinnamon and Black Pepper are boxed and ready to give to the teacher, babysitter or anyone else who would love a box of superior Watkins quality.

05961 Gold Medal Sampler US $15.99
Watkins Online Catalog

Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse

Chocolate Hazelnut Mousse uses one of our Limited-Edition Holiday Extracts. You can find this extract under Holiday Gifts and Entertaining - 2006 Our other Limited-Edition Extracts include Anise, Irish Cream, and Danish Pastry.

1 Watkins Chocolate Dessert Mix pudding recipe
2 cups/500 mL whipped cream
1 1/2 tsp/7.5 mL Watkins Hazelnut Extract

Prepare pudding recipe according to package directions. Cool slightly and whisk 1/2 tsp/2.5 mL of Hazelnut Extract into the pudding. Cover the top of the pudding with plastic wrap and let cool to room temperature. In a separate bowl, combine 2 cups/500 mL of whipped cream with 1 tsp/5 mL of Hazelnut Extract. Beat this mixture in a chilled bowl until it begins to thicken. Fold the whipped cream into pudding and spoon the mousse into desired serving dishes. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Good Tastings Host Rewards Extended for 2007

30% Host Rewards Extended for 2007

Watkins has again extended the 30% host reward for level 2 Good Tastings events. Good Tastings is Watkins party plan. People sample Watkins products at an informal get together.

Good Tastings hosts earn free Watkins products as a thank you from Watkins for hosting a Good Tastings event. The amount of free product a host receives depends on the product sales from the event. In other words: the larger the event, the larger the host gift.

For level 1 events, events with sales between $150 - $499.99 US/$250 - $699.99 CDN, your host earns 10% of the event sales in free Watkins products.

For level 2 events, events with sales of more than $500 US/$700 CDN, your host earns 30% of the event sales in free Watkins products.

The 30% host reward on level 2 events has been extended through December 31, 2007. Normally, a level 2 event earns 15% of event sales in free products for the host.

If you like to give parties then joining Watkins with the Good Tastings Kit is something you should consider. Join for $99.00 US or $125.00 CDN.

The kit includes our Business Introduction Kit with business materials, catalogs, and samples plus the Good Tastings Kit with party materials and enough products to give four Good Tastings Events.

Watkins 2006 Holiday Gift Line and Gift Ideas

If you are looking for gift ideas download our Gift Line Ideas and Tips
http://www.watkinsonline.com/pdf/GiftlineTips06.pdf

See these great ideas for teacher gifts, grab bag gifts, pot lucks, holiday entertaining, co-workers, hostess gifts, and stocking stuffers.

Holiday Wassail and Mulled Wine

Watkins Traditional Cider Brew

Hot spiced apple cider is one of our favorite holiday drinks. This blend of whole spices is perfect for cider or mulled wine, and adds a delightful holiday ambience as simmering potpourri.

You can find Cider Brew under Holiday Gifts and Entertaining - 2006 at my Watkins online catalog http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Happy Holidays! Enjoy these recipes!

Holiday Wassail

3 cups apple juice or cider
3 cups cranberry juice cocktail
1 cup water
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Watkins Cider Brew

Pour liquid ingredients and brown sugar into a large saucepan or crock pot. Place remaining ingredients in a coffee filter or cheese cloth tied with a piece of string and add to the pan or crockpot. Place over medium heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Mulled Wine

1 tablespoon Watkins Cider Brew
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup orange juice
1 orange, sliced
1 1/2 cups dry red wine

Place Cider Brew in metal tea boil or small piece of cheesecloth tied with a string. Place in a large kettle with brown sugar, water, juices, and orange slices. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes. Stir in wine and heat but do not boil.

Christmas Gifts For Children and For Our Troops Overseas

Christmas is a time of giving and sharing with others less fortunate or in need. There are many people where you live who won't have a Christmas dinner or presents without your help.

If you'd like to help other needy children and support our troops visit these web sites for information.

Operation Christmas Child at Samaritan's Purse provides Christmas gifts to children all over the world.

If you'd like to support our troops visit Operation Shoebox which sends shoeboxes of goodies to military personnel deployed overseas.

A testimonial from Lilly about Watkins Organic Cleaner

I'm always thrilled to hear from one of my online friends. Here is a testimonial from a satisfied Watkins shopper. Lilly earned a $10 Watkins gift certificate for purchasing $100 worth of Watkins products in one year. You can earn a gift certificate too! Her order of $75 or more was also shipped free.

"We are painting our kitchen today. We have some vinyl molding we are removing and thought of replacing until I scraped off most of the glue then used some Watkins Organic Cleaner on it to remove any residue to find that it also removed 99.9% of the glue. That's pretty darn good if you ask me. Now, instead of replacing it, we are going to reglue it and reuse it. It cleaned up nicely with a shine thanks to Watkins Organic Cleaner.

Thank you. By the way, now my husband wants a gallon of the Watkins Organic Cleaner of his own so I'm going to order it next week on your website using my $10 gc."

Lilly, thanks for sharing your experience using Watkins Organic Cleaner.

Purchase this product at my Watkins Online Catalog

Pumpkin Swirl Bread

I baked this pumpkin bread a few days ago and it is absolutely the best pumpkin bread I have ever tasted. It has just the right amount of spices and the sour cream and cream cheese swirl makes it moist and delicious. This recipe bakes two large loaves. Slice one loaf for you and your family to enjoy. Freeze the other for the holidays or give to a friend or relative. Be sure to attach the recipe.

This recipe will definitely go into my "Family Favorites" cookbook, an accumulation of recipes I use over and over again.

Sour cream and cream cheese combine for a delightful white swirl in this pumpkin bread.

Filling Ingredients

1 cup sour cream

1/4 cup sugar

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 egg

Bread Ingredients

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon Watkins Ground Cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon Watkins Ground Ginger

1/2 teaspoon Watkins Ground Nutmeg

2 2/3 cups sugar

1 cup vegetable oil

1/3 cup water

1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin

4 eggs

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour 2 (9x5-inch) loaf pans. Set aside.

Combine all filling ingredients in small bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed. Set aside.

Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, ginger and nutmeg in small bowl.

Combine 2 2/3 cups sugar, oil, water, pumpkin and 4 eggs in large bowl. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until smooth. Continue beating, gradually adding flour mixture and scraping bowl often, until well mixed.

Spoon 1/4 (about 2 cups) pumpkin batter into each prepared loaf pan. Carefully spread half of filling mixture over batter in each pan; top each pan evenly with remaining pumpkin batter. Pull knife or spatula through batter and filling to create swirl effect.

Bake for 65 to 70 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans. Cool completely. Makes two 9x5 inch loaves.

Nutrition Facts (1 serving)
Calories: 300, Fat: 14g, Cholesterol: 55mg, Sodium: 190mg, Carbohydrates: 41g, Dietary Fiber: 1g, Protein: 4g

Purchase the cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg at Watkins Online While you are there look at our complete line of products for your pantry, for your medicine chest, and for your home.

Unadvertised Menthol Camphor Ointment Special (US Only)

Buy one Menthol-Camphor Ointment tin and get one limited edition Menthol-Camphor Ointment in the gym-friendly plastic jar for just $4.99!

06612 Menthol-Camphor Ointment 3.53 oz. jar (U.S. Only)
Menthol-Camphor Ointment (Medicated Ointment in Canada) in the 117 g/4 1/8 oz. tin is already specially priced during October and November Promotions. But while supplies last, customers and Associates in the U.S. who purchase the Menthol-Camphor tin can also purchase the 3.53 oz. Menthol-Camphor, gym-friendly plastic jar for just $4.99 US—$3.00 off the suggested retail price!

02358 Menthol-Camphor Ointment 4 1/8 oz. tin (U.S. Only)
Regularly $8.99 US
October and November price: $7.99 US

06612 Menthol-Camphor Ointment 3.53 oz. jar (U.S. Only)
Regularly $7.99 US
Just $4.99 US with purchase of 02358 Menthol-Camphor Ointment
Limited Quantities

32358 Medicated Ointment 117 g/4 1/8 oz tin (Canada Only)
Regularly $10.99 CDN
October and November price: $8.99 CDN

Tips for Holiday Baking and Freezing

You don’t always have time to bake elaborate desserts during the holiday rush. But what if I told you that some scrumptious sweets can be made ahead and frozen; and no one would ever be able to taste or see the difference? Yum

Of course there's no time better than the holidays to have homemade sweets on hand—no time busier, either. But, happily, lots of sweets can be baked early, stowed in the freezer, and pulled out at party time, their taste, texture, good looks, and power to delight completely intact. Here's how to get it right—plus a few no-fail recipes for bake-and-freeze desserts.

Begin with butter
Pound cakes, tight-grained loaf cakes, sturdy Bundts, brownies, cookies—all the butter-based sweets—freeze best.

Freeze pies raw
Fruit pies make fine freezables, but you should get them into the freezer right after they're assembled. Then, pull out and bake.

Don't freeze creams
Meringues, puddings, custards, creams, mousses, and whips don't freeze well—some break down, some weep, and they all lose their lovely textures in the defrosting process.

Cool first, freeze second
A sweet isn't really finished until it's cooled—cooling is what sets the texture and gives the flavors time to blend.

Pack it airtight
Oxygen is what causes freezer burn. There are fancy freezer containers on the market, but old-school twist-tied plastic bags or plastic wrap is most effective. Because the seal should be snug, draw together the top of the bag, then suck out as much air as possible before shutting it tight with a twist tie.

Label everything
Put the name of your goody on the bag (mystery cakes are as frustrating as mystery meat), and mark the date that you made it.

Defrost slowly
It's best to put the frozen dessert—still in its wrapping—in the refrigerator to defrost overnight, then bring it to room temperature before serving. If you're in a rush, go directly from freezer to counter. Never defrost frozen desserts in the microwave. That's a sure-fire way to cook or melt them.

Exerpted from Hot Freezables By Dorie Greenspan

Dorie Greenspan is an award-winning cookbook author. Her latest, Baking: From My Home to Yours, will be published by Houghton Mifflin in November.

Two New Products - Roasted Turkey Gourmet Gravy Mix and Watkins Sampler

Two New Watkins Products Available November 1

Roasted Turkey Gourmet Gravy Mix (01173) $7.99

There’s nothing like Grandma’s homemade gravy over mashed potatoes. Inspired by Grandma Watkins’ original recipe, our new Roasted Turkey Gourmet Gravy Mix makes it simple to enjoy this comforting favorite everyday; just add water, simmer and taste. Savor the rich, made-from-scratch flavor, just like being in Grandma’s kitchen!

Watkins Sampler (10530) $18.99

Eight reasons to try some of our most popular products, all packaged in a sturdy reusable logo bag and ready for travel or gift giving.

Watkins Sampler Contains:

• Aloe and Green Tea Hand and Body Lotion 1 fl oz.29 mL
  
• Vanilla Hand and Body Lotion 1 fl oz/ 29 mL
  
• Peppermint Foot Cream 1 fl oz/ 29 mL
  
• Mango Shea Butter .70 oz/ 20 g
  
• Lemon Cream Shea Butter .70 oz/ 20 g
  
• All-Natural Lavender Hand and Cuticle Salve .25 oz/ 7 g
  
• All-Natural Lemon Hand and Cuticle Salve .25 oz/ 7 g
  
• All-Natural Lemon Body Oil 1 fl oz/ 29 mL
  

Shop my Watkins Store for these and other monthly specials.

Create a PDF File with Adobe

I was looking for a free program or software to add a .pdf file to my web site so my customers and visitors could download a free recipe collection.

My search led me to Adobe. You can create five free files using their trial offer. http://createpdf.adobe.com

Create a .pdf file from a document on your hard drive or from a web page. Browse your computer for the document and hit submit. In seconds your .pdf file is created. You can then save, distribute, or print it.

Creat a .pdf file from a web page. Enter the url and hit submit. In seconds a .pdf file is created that you can save and upload to your site or distribute.

There are several other free .pdf file creators online but most of them have strings attached or charge a small fee if your document is over a prescribed number of pages.

The Adobe PDF Creator free trial offer has no strings attached and is quick and simple to use.

I definitely recommend this free trial offer.

Go to my web site to see the free holiday recipe collection.

Rolled Soft Sugar Cookies

Use cookie cutters in Halloween shapes to make these cookies for your little ghosts and goblins.

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
2 eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon Watkins Vanilla
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Lemon Extract, if desired

Combine 2 cups flour and all other ingredients in large bowl. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed. Stir in remaining flour by hand.

Divide dough into 4 equal portions. Wrap each in plastic food wrap. Refrigerate until firm (at least 2 hours).

Heat oven to 350°F. Roll out dough on well-floured surface, one portion at a time (keeping remaining dough refrigerated), to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with 2 1/2-inch cookie cutters.

Place cookies 1 inch apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Sprinkle with decorator sugars or leave plain for frosting, if desired. Bake for 7 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool completely. Decorate with frosting.

Purchase extracts and spices for your holiday cookies at My Watkins Store

Subscribe to Around the Kitchen Table - Watkins Newsletter for recipes and cooking tips Watkins Newsletter

Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Bake this yummy cookie for your Halloween party.

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup sugar
1 cup cooked, pureed pumpkin (fresh or canned)
1 egg
1 teaspoon Watkins Vanilla Extract
2 cups unbleached all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Watkins Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Nutmeg
1 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped
1 cup raisins

Icing
2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon Watkins Vanilla Extract
3 tablespoons milk, cream, fresh orange juice or rum

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add pumpkin, egg and vanilla and mix well. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir into butter mixture until well blended. Add nuts and raisins. Drop by teaspoonful onto parchment covered baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Bake about 15 minutes, or until golden. Cool.

Icing
Cream confectioners sugar and butter. Add remaining ingredients and beat until smooth. (If icing is too thin, add more confectioners' sugar; if too thick, add more milk, cream, orange juice or rum.) Drizzle over cookies.
Yield: 6 dozen Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Purchase extracts and spices for your holiday cookies at My Watkins Store

Subscribe to Around the Kitchen Table - Watkins Newsletter for recipes and cooking tips Watkins Newsletter

100% Organic Herbs and Spices

Watkins has added organic herbs and spices to its product line. They will continue to offer the current line of Gourmet All-Natural Herbs and Spices in bottles and Cinnamon and Black Pepper in 6 oz and 12 oz tins while meeting the demands of the growing consumer base that prefers organic foods.

Organic food differs from conventionally produced food in the way it is grown, handled, and processed. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers this definition of organic food:

“Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products come from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones. Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides; fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge; bioengineering; or ionizing radiation. Before a product can be labeled ‘organic,’ a Government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it gets to your local supermarket or restaurant must be certified, too.”

Watkins Organic Spices are certified organic by the USDA National Organic Program under its most stringent standards: 100% organic.

Founded in 1868, America’s original natural products company has been the pioneer in spices and extracts for over 100 years. The same company that has brought you award winning all-natural Madagascar bourbon vanilla extract now introduces a new line of USDA certified
100% organic spices in trademark gold medal tins.

Organic Black Pepper – We have searched the globe and found the most flavorful pepper from Sri Lanka.
Organic Cinnamon – Our flavorful cinnamon from Indonesia is the best quality available anywhere.
Organic Nutmeg – The hard kernel of the peach-like fruit imparts a rich nut-like flavor. Watkins selects only the finest seed from Indonesia.
Organic Chili Powder – Our balanced blend of Chili Powder will be superior in any dishes you cook. Blended with quality spices from around the world.
Organic Cumin – Cumin is indispensable to Mexican and Southwestern cooking. The best seeds from Turkey are carefully sorted and ground to create the best finished product for your kitchen.
Organic Ginger – We have found the very finest ginger roots from Indonesia. They have been carefully dried to preserve their warm, spicy flavor.
Organic Dry Mustard – The pungency of the mustard is not released until it is added to water or another liquid. Watkins only uses the finest oil-rich North American mustard seed.
Organic Oregano – Watkins has chosen only select Turkish oregano, which has a strong flavor.
Organic Garlic Powder – Our garlic powder will enhance any dish needing great garlic flavor. We have selected only the best garlic from China.
Organic Paprika – Paprika is ground from dried red chilies. Watkins selects only the best Mexican variety, which is a brilliant color and is sweeter in taste.
Organic Sage – Sage is excellent in poultry stuffing and its flavor and natural tenderizing properties make it perfect for pork and other rich meats. We have found the most flavorful sage from Croatia.
Organic Parsley – We have selected only the finest parsley from Egypt to bring a bright flavor to any dish.
Organic Ground Cloves – Our ground cloves from Indonesia are one of the world’s most aromatic and important spices.
Organic Onion Powder – Our Onion powder will enhance any dish with delicious onion flavor. We have selected only the best onion from China.
Organic Thyme – We have selected only the finest thyme from Turkey to bring an irresistible flavor to any slow cooked dish.
Organic Basil – Our sweet basil is the most prominent of many varieties of basil. We sourced the very best basil from Egypt.
Organic Rosemary – Rosemary is a pungent combination of mint and evergreen and is best when roasting meats. Our rosemary is from Argentina and is the best quality available.
Organic Dill – Dill is best known for its use with fish and other seafood dishes. We have sourced the very best dill from Egypt.
Organic Curry Powder – Use small amounts to enhance and support other herbs and spices while cooking. Blended with quality spices from around the world.

Note: These 19 spices represent approximately 70% of the total spice demand for the everyday consumer

Wahms United, a Resource For Work at Home Moms

Wahms United provides work at home moms resources, tools and information required to start, build and grow their home based business. Dianne Fratscher, a work at home mom, is the founder of Wahms United.

As a Gold Club Member you receive:

• Discounted Marketing Services
  
• Free Member Profile Page
  
• Members Directory Listing
  
• Private Networking Group Access
  
• Button Rotation Exchange
  
• Free Software Downloads
  
• Free Business Ebooks
  
• Free Business Tutorials & Guides
  
• Discounted Website Hosting
  
• Free Store In Our Online Mall
  
• Discounted Website Services
  
• Free Use Of Our Chat Rooms For Parties and Other Events!
  
• Free Participation in Networking Events
  
• AND MORE!

Visit Wahms United today for information and tools from an experienced and caring work at home mom. Find out how to become a Gold Club Member.

Decorative Jars for your Holiday Gifts

Use paint, labels, stencils, decoupage, and embellishments to make your jars look special. Match gifts and jar decorations to the person receiving the gift. Then attach a matching gift card to your jar.

Use glass canning jars, glass bottles, old-fashioned wire bail jars, recycled jars, antique jars, or plastic storage jars. Jars must have tight fitting lids.

Sterilize Jars for Food Gifts
The jars you use to package food gifts should be glass and sterilized before use.
1. Check all jars for chips and cracks. If chipped or cracked, don’t use for food. Use new lids.
2. Wash with hot, soapy water; then rinse.
3. To sterilize jars, place on a rack in a large pot and cover with water. Let water come to a boil and boil for 15 minutes. Remove from boiling water and let dry. Jars and lids can also be sterilized in your dishwasher.

Methods to Decorate Your Jars

Decorate With Paint
Always wash jar in hot soapy water to remove grease or residue.

Select a paint intended for use on the surface you are decorating. Read the label on the paint container to determine the paint’s compatibility with your surface. This rule goes for painting on glass, metal lids, or plastic jars and lids.

Acrylic craft paints are not permanent and can be rubbed or washed off.

1. Acrylic Glass Paints are best for glass jars. They come in a wide variety of pre-mixed colors in convenient squeeze bottles to decorate your gift jars. These types of paints can be baked in a home oven to make them more durable and washable. (Read the label) To bake, let the paint dry on the jar for 48 hours. Place glass jar in a conventional oven (not preheated) and heat to 325 degrees F. Bake for 10 minutes. Turn off the oven and allow jar to cool in oven before removing. After baking painted jars can be hand washed. Washing in a dishwasher is not recommended.
2. Air-Dry Enamel Paints for Glass are opaque, brush-on glass paints available that air dry to a high-gloss, waterproof finish. Choose a brand that is water-based and non-toxic.
3. Paints for Plastic are brush-on paints especially formulated for adhering to plastic and dry to a durable, waterproof finish. Water-based types allow you to clean brushes and spills with soap and water.
4. Paint Pens are available in craft shops and come in a wide selection of colors. They are great for detailing and simple jar decoration.
5. Fabric Paints can be used for special effects like wording or facial features. They
squeeze directly from the bottle.

Paint a design on the jar using pre-cut purchased stencils or a design you cut yourself from freezer paper. You can also paint the design on your jar free-hand. Draw the outline with a Sharpie Fine Point Permanent Marker or draw completely free-hand. Use caution as the Sharpie marker will smudge on glass.

Decorate With Labels
Make paper labels created on your computer and then printed, or draw label on your choice of paper.

To give your labels an aged appearance spatter with brown acrylic paint thinned in water. Use an old tooth brush for spattering.

Lightly sponge the edges of the label using a dense foam sponge and the spattering mixture.

Allow labels to dry; then glue or decoupage to jar.

Decorate with Decoupage
Use Mod Podge Gloss Lustre decoupage medium for your jars.

Decoupage is done in three basic steps: cutting, gluing, and sealing.

1. Trim away excess paper from the image or picture you wish to use.
2. Using a foam brush, lightly coat the back of the image with decoupage medium. Position the image on the surface and smooth it with your fingers, pushing out wrinkles and air bubbles. Allow to dry.
3. Apply two or three coats of decoupage medium over the image with a foam brush to seal the paper. The image appears cloudy when wet, but will dry crystal clear.

Decoupaged jars can be wiped with a damp cloth to clean but cannot be washed in a
dishwasher or submerged in water.

You can create a paper collage jar using decoupage. A collage is a group of pictures or images layered and overlapped to form a display. Use printed photos, interesting paper, stamps, and stickers. Arrange the images by overlapping them for a decorative display. Attach and seal them with two or three coats of decoupage medium.

Decorate with Fabric
If you prefer not to decorate the outside of the glass or plastic jar, add decoration to the lid.

Cover the top of the jar lid with fabric or a small lace fabric or paper doily. Use holiday or gingham fabric cut with pinking sheers. Add three to four inches to the diameter dimension of the jar lid for coverage and decoration. A circular piece of batting can be used under the fabric for a stuffed appearance. A counted cross stitch design can also be used on top of the jar. Place the fabric over the lid on the jar or place over the lid seal and then add the screw-on band. Lace or braid can be glued around the band.

Embellishments
A variety of items can be used to embellish your decorated jar. Make your embellishment compliment the contents. If your gift jar contains a Gingerbread Cookie Mix attach a gingerbread man cookie cutter. Add a holiday cookie cutter to a Sugar Cookie Mix. Attach a tea ball or infuser to a jar of tea. Attach a wooden spoon, rubber spatula, or wire whisk to other mixes.

Make a tag or card to coordinate with the jar decoration or contents and attach with a ribbon or raffia.

Embellishments include ribbon, holiday garlands, gold braid or cord, raffia, lace, buttons, beads, charms, tassels, or bandanas.

Choosing Glues
For gluing items to jars, silicon-based glue for glass works best. It also works well for gluing wood to glass, metal to glass, or plastic to glass. It can also be used to attach items to metal or wooden lids. Silicone-based glue dries slowly so you will have to prop the jar carefully until the glue is dry.

A glue gun can be used for attaching light objects such as ribbon to the jar for instant hold.

White craft glue is used for gluing unbaked polymer pieces to a jar or lid before baking in the oven.

Gift Jar Contents
Use your imagination and consider who the gift is for when deciding on the contents. Food mixes are very popular. Gift jars can also contain sewing notions, keep sakes, games, snack foods such as trail mix, nuts n’ bolts or chex mix, candied nuts, candied popcorn, Christmas candy or jelly beans, coffee, tea, flavored vinegars and oils in glass bottles, potpourri or fragrance gel, bath salts, and a baked cake-in-a-jar.

If you plan to give a food mix, first choose the recipe and ingredients. Food mixes often look better when the ingredients for the mix are layered in the jar. The recipient can mix the ingredients before using them.

If you plan to give a mix you will need:
1. A small bottle to tamp down the ingredients as you layer or place them in the jar.
2. A canning funnel or piece of card stock to make a simple funnel for filling jars.
3. Paper towels to wipe powdery ingredients off inside of jar.

Tips for Packing Food Ingredients
1. Layer ingredients in the jar in the order given in the recipe.
2. Wipe down the sides of the jar with a clean paper towel after adding powdery ingredients such as sugar, cocoa, or flour before adding the next ingredient for a better appearance.
3. Pack down all ingredients firmly as they are added. If you don’t, you won’t have enough space to fit in all the ingredients. Generally, a quart holds 6 cups of packed down ingredients; a pint jar holds 3 cups of packed down ingredients.
4. If ingredients do not come to top of the jar, fill space with crumpled plastic wrap or waxed paper to prevent the ingredients from shifting and mixing.
5. After packing ingredients into jar, seal with the lid. Attach a card with the recipe, instructions, a list of any additional ingredients, and a holiday greeting.

Baked Cake-in-a-Jar
Use a pint-sized wide-mouth canning jar with a two-part lid (flat seal and screw-on band) when baking a cake-in-a-jar. The wide mouth allows the cake to slide out of jar. Choose a cake-in-a-jar recipe or adjust your favorite cake recipe to make in jars. Place one cup of prepared cake mix in pint jar. Bake according to directions. Jars and lids must be sterilized before using. (Use new lids) Bake cake and add lid as soon as cake is removed from oven. Carefully place flat seal on top of jar and then the screw-on band. Jar is very hot so do not burn yourself. Allow jar to cool and then test to make sure the jar is sealed. If the cake does not seal properly, eat cake, refrigerate or freeze until ready to eat. The sealed jars of cake can be stored without refrigeration for up to two months. Attach a tag with the name of the cake and that says, “Best eaten before (two months from date the cake was baked).”

Give yourself plenty of time to decorate your gift jars and plan the contents for each person on your Christmas list. Fill the jars, then sit back and relax. Sip a cup of hot spiced cider and enjoy the holidays.
________________________________________________
Eleisia Whitney is a Watkins home business owner. She publishes a Watkins Newsletter - Around the Kitchen Table http://www.everydaynecessities.com/atktnewsletter.htm
Visit her at http://www.everydaynecessities.com and http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Kudos to www.MyDomain.com

I've been changing the design of my business web site, Watkins Products and Home Business Opportunity located at http://www.everydaynecessities.com
I was so absorbed in designing and updating my site that I let my domain name expire. Can you believe it! Here I am laboring over my site, racking my brain, learning how to apply the correct code to get a specific design and improving search engine optimization. And I let my domain name expire!

This morning I received an email from my domain registrar, www.MyDomain.com, saying that my domain name had expired. After the initial shock I immediately renewed everydaynecessities.com. It was my fault that this happened. MyDomain.com offers auto renewal but I had disabled this option because I had another domain name I didn't want renewed.

Within just a few hours my web site was back on the internet. I breathed a sigh of relief. Kudos to www.MyDomain.com for their prompt and efficient customer service. I recommend this domain registrar if you are planning to register a domain name. This company, founded in 1998, is a leading domain registration service and provider of self-service domain management tools. They will register your domain name for just $8.50 per year.

Lesley's Internet Tips

Today I came across a web site with internet tips about search engine optimization, meta tags, pay-per-click advertising and a variety of other internet topics.

If you have a business web site these tips will help you improve your site and possibly increase your search engine rankings.

The internet tips are at Lesley's Internet Tips

Customer Rewards - Earn a $10 Watkins Gift Certificate

I'm always thrilled when I hear from my online friends and customers.

I recently received this email from one of my online Watkins friends who placed an order for over $100 and earned a $10 Watkins gift certificate as a Customer Reward. She not only earned the $10 gift certificate to use on her next order but her order was shipped free ($75 US, $99 Canadian) .

"Thank you so very much! Although, I don't order often, I do manage to stock up on some things that we use regularly. Like that gallon of organic cleaner lasts me for a year. I love that stuff. It is wonderful especially when you have pets. Well, now, we can't live without the chicken soup. I use that for so many things it's unreal. As for the beef, I use it but not as much but both are the best i could find anywhere. Nothing in the stores are comparable to either of them. Thanks again for the gc. I will use that on my next order. I am printing it so hopefully I won't lose it in the meantime." Lilly in Pennsylvania

My Customer Rewards Program rewards customers when their Watkins order(s) total $100 or more (before shipping and tax) during one year January 1 through December 31. The orders are accumulative; I keep a record of the amount each customer purchases and send a $10 Watkins Gift Certificate when their orders reach $100.

So ask your friends, relatives, and neighbors to place an order with you; get your order shipped free and earn a Watkins gift certificate to use on your next order.

Visit http://www.WatkinsOnline.com/eleisiawhitney for monthly specials, our complete product line, and our holiday gifts and entertaining products.

Why Choose VanillaSage as the Title of My Blog?

I chose "VanillaSage" as the title of my blog for several reasons. First, I like the way it sounds.

Second, Vanilla and Sage are both Watkins products. Our vanilla is one of the best that you can buy. It is made from the world's finest Madagascar Bourbon vanilla beans. It takes nearly a pound of these precious beans to make just one gallon of vanilla extract.

Original Double-Strength Vanilla is made from a special formula that contains less alcohol so it doesn't bake or freeze out of your food. Our Pure Vanilla is all natural, made from the best vanilla beans, and contains 35% alcohol, a requirement for a vanilla to be called pure vanilla. Our vanilla products also include Double-Strength Imitation Clear Vanilla Extract. Clear Vanilla is colorless, bake-proof, freeze-proof, with double-strength flavor. It is formulated for wedding cakes and frostings and other baked goods that need to be pure white.

Sage is a Mediterranean herb that got its name because of the ancient belief that it strengthened the memory and imparted wisdom. Sage is an ingredient in poultry seasoning and poultry stuffing. Its flavor and digestive properties make it perfect for pork, sausages, and other meats. Watkins chooses only the best sage from the world's best growing regions, prepares it to retain the essential oils for maximum flavor, and uses strict quality control for superior quality and flavor. Sage is packaged in glass bottles or tins, not plastic, to preserve quality.

Webster's Dictionary defines vanilla as

1. any of genus (Vanilla) of tropical climbing orchids (family Orchidaceae).

2. a capsule that is the fruit of a vanilla widely distributed from Florida southward throughout tropical America, that has the form of an elongated pod, and that is an important article of commerce for the flavoring extract that it yields; a flavoring extract made by soaking vanilla pods in a mixture of water and grain alcohol.

Webster's Dictionary defines sage as

1. wise through reflection and experience; preceding from or characterized
by wisdom, prudence, and good judgment.

2. a mature or venerable man, sound in judgment.

3. a mint (Salvia officinalis) with grayish green aromatic leaves used especially in flavoring meats.

Third, I don't profess to be a sage or wise person but I hope that some of the things I've learned through past experiences and the information I provide will be helpful to you.

Visit Eleisia at http://www.everydaynecessities.com

A Little About Me

I'd like to begin by telling you a little about myself. I live in northern California with my family. I grew up in Idaho and enjoy the wide open spaces.

One of my hobbies is bird watching and feeding my backyard birds. Providing bird seed, peanuts, and water, as well as, planting bird friendly plants has enticed a variety of birds and other animals to our yard.

One squirrel became very friendly and couldn't overcome his taste for peanuts. Here are some pictures.

Welcome to VanillaSage - News about Watkins Products and Home Based Business

Hi! My name is Eleisia Whitney. I am a Watkins Associate. I'm writing this blog to share information about Watkins products and our home based business opportunity. I'll also share recipes, cooking and health tips, and resources and advice about building any successful home based business.

I chose Watkins because of the products and the integrity and long-standing reputation of the company. Watkins offers consumable products of high quality and value for your money. Every product has a money back guarantee.

The company strives to provide superior quality products for its customers and a proven business model with unlimited earning potential for its associates. How many companies can you think of that have been around since 1868?

Visit me at http://www.everydaynecessities.com
Shop at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney
Read Around the Kitchen Table - Watkins Newsletter for recipes, cooking and health tips, and contests to win free Watkins products. Read the current issue here http://www.everydaynecessities.com/atktnewsletter.htm