Lifestyles

By Sharon Whitley Larsen

The eyes of the world will be focused on Queen Elizabeth II’s big celebration on June 2, marking 70 years on the British throne — Britain’s longest-reigning monarch.

A lifelong royal fan, I recently spent a week in London, my favorite city, which I have visited more than three dozen times. This was my first international trip since November 2019, and what a great feeling to celebrate the easing of the COVID-19 pandemic that had tragically gripped the world.

As I wandered around the South Bank along the River Thames near the London Eye, it was exciting to see children scampering about with parents and grandparents — including visitors from Italy, Germany, Spain, France and the United States. And what a thrill to see Platinum Jubilee royal souvenirs displayed in shops, the anticipation of a happy, celebratory atmosphere.

I have always admired the queen, who was just a girl of 10 when she was told, upon the abdication of her uncle, King Edward VIII, as her father succeeded the throne that she one day would be queen. It was just 15 years later, at age 25, as a young naval wife and mother of two youngsters (Charles and Anne), that she was suddenly catapulted to the lifelong position upon the unexpected death of her father, King George VI, on Feb. 6, 1952.

Yet not only has the queen drawn worldwide admiration throughout the decades, calmly surviving the intense royal pressure and work, but she has become a revered and respected figure worldwide. Especially last year, after losing her beloved husband of 73 years, Prince Philip, on April 9, 2021, and recently enduring several family disappointments and health issues, she has kept calm and carried on. Now 96, she will be feted for several days throughout the United Kingdom the first week of June amid lavish displays of pageantry and affection as only the Brits can do.

Held, as is tradition, in Westminster Abbey, hers was the first British coronation to be televised, with more than 20 million viewers in the United Kingdom alone. This 40th monarch since William the Conqueror has traveled more than any other British sovereign in history on more than 250 official visits in some 116 countries. Her reign has spanned 14 British prime ministers and 14 U.S. presidents.

Over a four-day bank holiday June 2-5, many events will be held, including Trooping the Color. A large military parade will feature 1,750 participants, and some 2,500 citizens will showcase fashion, vintage cars and music spanning the past seven decades. To toast the loyal and dedicated monarch’s longtime reign will be numerous activities, events, concerts, picnics, prayer services and programs at several historic properties that include St. Paul’s Cathedral and Buckingham Palace, where some of the royal family will make a balcony appearance.

Even if you aren’t able to celebrate the excitement of the Platinum Jubilee in person, you may want to plan a later trip to London to visit the many historic sites. I always suggest that first-time visitors tour the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace (the several weeks annually that it’s open for tours), the British Museum, Hampton Court (home of Henry VIII), Westminster Abbey and the Churchill War Rooms. They should also enjoy the bird’s-eye views from atop the London Eye and not miss a boat ride down the Thames.

On both business and pleasure trips I have stayed in three- to five-star hotels all over London, and my favorite hotel location is the reasonably priced Premier Inn in the County Hall building next to the London Eye. (It was fully booked on my April trip, so I stayed at its sister Premier Inn a block away on York Road.) This location is within walking distance of most popular venues, a 20-minute boat ride to the Tower of London, a 50-minute train ride from nearby Waterloo Station to Windsor Castle (which is open for tours most of the year and where the queen currently resides) and a 45-minute train ride from Waterloo to Hampton Court.

As the young queen noted in her coronation speech, broadcast the evening of June 2, 1953, “The Ceremonies you have seen today are ancient and some of their origins are veiled in the mysteries of the past, but their spirit and their meaning shine through the Ages, never, perhaps, more brightly than now. I have in sincerity pledged myself to your service, as so many of you are pledged to mine. Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust. …As this day draws to its close, I know that my abiding memory of it will be not only the solemnity and beauty of the Ceremony but the inspiration of your loyalty and affection. I thank you all from a full heart. God bless you all.”
And God save the queen, indeed.

WHEN YOU GO

Premier Inn: www.premierinn.com
London Eye: www.londoneye.com
Westminster Abbey: www.westminster-abbey.org
Churchill War Rooms: www.iwm.org.uk
Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace (Royal Collection Trust): www.rct.uk
Hampton Court and Tower of London (Historic Royal Palaces): www.hrp.org.uk
British Museum: www.britishmuseum.org
Thames Clippers (river taxi): www.thamesclippers.com
Visit London: www.visitlondon.com
Visit Britain: www.visitbritain.com

PHOTO CAPTION:Tourists photograph the popular Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle, where Queen Elizabeth II currently resides. Photo courtesy of Carl H. Larsen.
Sharon Whitley Larsen is a freelance writer.
COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS.COM

By Christine Huard

With interactive play opportunities designed to help the next generation of explorers better understand their place in the natural world, the San Diego Zoo’s newest exhibit is truly a place where kids can go wild.
Spanning 3.2 acres that feature four distinct habitat zones and the animals that live in those environments, the Denny Sanford Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is home to hundreds of mammals, birds, reptiles, fish and amphibians and thousands (thanks in part to ant and bee colonies) of invertebrates.

With an eye on sparking curiosity and creating lasting memories, designers consulted with child development experts early in the creative process to find ways to encourage empathy for wildlife and make young explorers a part of the shared environment. Paul A. Baribault, president and chief executive officer of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, said he hopes the new exhibit serves as a launch pad that gives budding conservationists a glimpse of life from the animal’s point of view.

“It’s a fun, accessible and meaningful way to discover how we’re all connected and that the health of the smallest members of the wildlife community are inextricably linked to our own human health,” he said.
The new exhibit has been open to the public just since March. Built on the site of the former Children’s Zoo, the $88 million Wildlife Explorers Basecamp offers immersive learning and play experiences that encourage a “monkey see, monkey do” attitude in the best way. Kids climb around a 20-foot-tall “ancient oak tree” alongside squirrel monkeys in the Wild Woods habitat, scale boulders in the Desert Dunes habitat, experience a larger-than-life honeycomb in the Rainforest habitat, and immerse themselves (figuratively) in the aquatic habitats of the Marsh Meadows.

On a hot day, the Wild Woods is likely to be one of the busier spots with its waterfall grotto and splash pad featuring a stream and water jets. It’s also where a suspension bridge, net tunnel and spiral staircase are located, as well as full-body dryers you can step into after getting soaking wet in the water-play area.

Josh Maynard of San Diego was checking out the new exhibit with his daughter, Rose, 10. After touring all the habitats and buildings, the longtime zoo visitors had some new favorites: He enjoyed exploring a watery habitat where they got a close look at dwarf crocodiles, as well as the snakes and lizards housed in the Cool Critters building, and she couldn’t get enough of scrambling across the suspension bridge. She also appreciated the dryer system, saying it would allow kids who didn’t have a bathing suit to enjoy the splash pad and then dry their street clothes.

She also had a least favorite part.
“I did not like the insects,” she said.
But oh, how fascinating the creepy crawlies are! Visitors will find an abundance of multilegged critters — from butterflies and spiders to scorpions and beetles — in the McKinney Family Spineless Marvels building, located in the Rainforest zone. The 10,000-square-foot space also houses a colony of leafcutter ants that takes up two stories and a beehive with an oversize honeycomb where kids can get a feel for what it’s like to be a pollinator.

Over in the Desert Dunes are the fennec fox, prairie dogs and burrowing owls. Play sculptures of the desert rain frog and desert chameleon invite visitors to see the world from their perspective. There are climbing opportunities in a boulder play area and petroglyphs to be discovered inside a cave.

In the Marsh Meadows, strategically designed plantings evoke marshes, swamps and estuaries and attract native birds, butterflies and bees. The two-story Cool Critters building features 7,000 square feet dedicated to herpetology and ichthyology. The outdoor area is home to a multitude of aquatic life that can be explored at eye level. The animals that call the inside spaces home include the Fijian iguana, snakes, turtles, lizards and frogs. Two onsite learning labs will be used for hosting school field trips.

“Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is an engaging, hands-on adventure, seeding hope and optimism, where wildlife and guests can be active and engaged,” said Shawn Dixon, chief operating officer of San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

WHEN YOU GO

For more information: https://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/wildlife-explorers-basecamp

Christine Huard is a freelance writer.
COPYRIGHT 2022 CREATORS.COM

PHOTO CAPTION: At the center of the Wild Woods area at the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is a 20-foot “ancient oak tree” where young explorers can cross a suspension bridge, scramble through a net tunnel and climb a spiral staircase. Photo courtesy of Jamie Wells/San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance.

(Culinary.net) Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate and treat your mom to a delicious breakfast or brunch. Whether it’s a meal in bed or a beautiful spread on the dining room table, make the day special with simple recipes that are sure to impress.

Try this Brunch Fruit Tart with a tasty granola crust and colorful fruit topping to start Mother’s Day in style. It’s a sweet option to begin her day on the right note.

With a crunchy crust and smooth center, this tart is balanced, easy to make and a beautiful addition to the menu. It’s also easy to customize as the fruit topping options are nearly unlimited. Pick your mom’s favorites and decorate the top however you please. Or, let the little ones get creative and put their own spin on an essential Mother’s Day meal.

For more brunch recipes, visit Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Brunch Fruit Tart

Recipe adapted from homemadeinterest.com

Crust:

• 4          cups granola mixture
• 1/2       cup butter, softened
• 4 1/2    tablespoons honey
• nonstick cooking spray

Filling:

• 2 1/4    cups vanilla Greek yogurt
• 8          ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2       cup granulated sugar
• 1          teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1          package gelatin

Toppings:

• strawberries, sliced
• blueberries
• kiwis, sliced

1. To make crust: Preheat oven to 350 F.
2. In large bowl, combine granola, butter and honey. Grease 11-inch tart pan with nonstick cooking spray. Line bottom of tart pan with parchment paper.
3. Press granola mixture into tart pan. Place tart pan on baking sheet and bake 10 minutes. Cool completely.
4. To make filling: Using mixer, combine yogurt, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract and gelatin until whipped completely.
5. Pour yogurt mixture into tart crust. Refrigerate at least 1 hour.
6. Top with strawberries, blueberries and kiwis.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

(Family Features) Cooking delicious family meals is surely the focus of many home chefs, from quick dishes on busy weeknights to homestyle favorites on the weekend. Equally important, however, is dishing up foods and ingredients you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.

The next time seafood is on the menu, consider the source of your main course. Available fresh, frozen, smoked and canned year-round and nationwide, seafood from Alaska is sustainably harvested, and you can trust it comes from a responsibly managed fishery. Utilizing a science-based approach, the state sustains the long-term vitality of species and their natural habitats, as well as the fishing communities that rely on them.

Fishermen and scientists work together to ensure they only harvest what science tells them the ecosystem can support, so that fish stocks, communities and the marine environment can thrive for generations to come.

Wild, sustainable and harvested in the USA, Alaska seafood is full of flavor and high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals and oils essential to good health, including omega-3s and vitamin D. You can feel good serving your loved ones these Blackened Alaska Cod Tacos as a classic way to spice up your dinner table, or give a sweet heat kick to Spicy Alaska Sablefish in Lettuce Cups with Korean chili paste, miso and honey.

Visit alaskaseafood.org to find more information and family-friendly recipes.

Spicy Alaska Sablefish in Lettuce Cups

Recipe courtesy of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 (2 lettuce cups each)

• 1/4 cup yellow or white miso
• 1 tablespoon Korean chili paste
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 pound Alaska sablefish (black cod), cut into 2-ounce portions
• nonstick cooking spray
• 1 small avocado, pitted, peeled and chopped
• 1-1 1/4 cups cooked sushi rice or quinoa
• 1/2 cup chopped English cucumber
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced halved radish
• 1/2 cup pickled ginger, chopped
• 1/2 cup bottled Asian-style salad dressing with wasabi and ginger
• 8 medium-large butter lettuce leaves
• 1/2 cup cilantro leaves

1. Blend miso, chili paste and honey; spread onto Alaska sablefish portions. Place portions on nonstick cooking spray-coated, foil-lined baking sheet. Roast 5-7 minutes, or until fish is opaque throughout and deep golden brown; cool slightly.
2. In mixing bowl, combine avocado, rice or quinoa, cucumber, radishes and ginger; pour in dressing. Toss to coat.
3. To serve, place about 1/3 cup vegetable-rice mixture in each lettuce leaf. Top with one sablefish portion. Sprinkle each lettuce cup with 1 tablespoon cilantro leaves.

Blackened Alaska Cod Tacos

Recipe courtesy of the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute and Sari Diskin
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2-3

• 2 cups slaw mix
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce, plus additional for serving
• 1 lime, divided
• salt, to taste
• pepper, to taste
• nonstick cooking spray
• 1/2 pound Alaska cod
• olive oil
• blackening seasoning, to taste, plus additional, divided
• sea salt, to taste
• 4 small flour tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced

1. Preheat oven to 400 F.
2. In bowl, mix slaw with mayonnaise, hot sauce, juice from 1/2 lime and salt and pepper, to taste; set aside.
3. Line baking dish with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Place Alaska cod on top and coat lightly with olive oil. Generously season with blackening seasoning and sea salt, to taste.
4. Bake 5 minutes, set oven to broil and broil 3-5 minutes. When fish is done (when it flakes easily with fork and is opaque throughout), remove from oven and break into small chunks with fork.
5. In flour tortillas, add avocado and slaw. Top with chunks of cod and drizzle with additional hot sauce, squeeze of lime juice from remaining 1/2 lime and additional blackening seasoning.

Photo courtesy of Sari Diskin (Blackened Alaska Cod Tacos)

SOURCE:
Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute

How travelers’ preferences changed over the years

(Family Features) If you haven’t planned a trip in a while, you aren’t alone. Many Americans haven’t taken a proper vacation in almost three years. In that time, many travelers’ preferences have changed.

“The pandemic impacted nearly every aspect of our lives, including how we search for our next hotel stay,” said Mel Dohmen, senior brand manager at Hotels.com. “The amenities we love and are looking for in 2022 reflect everything we’ve felt and experienced over the past few years.”

To identify some of the most in-demand (and out of touch) amenities so far this year, Hotels.com analyzed searches on its site and mobile app from the past three years as part of its 2022 Amenity Report. When booking your next stay, be on the lookout for hotels with these amenities:

Stress-Free Soaking
Hotels with bathtubs were the most-searched amenity during the peak of the pandemic. As travelers are looking for self-care options while on the go, searches for hotels with bathtubs and spas have grown more than 25%, compared with 2019.

Prioritizing Time Off the Clock
While travelers prioritized properties with remote work amenities pre-pandemic, searches for hotels with free Wi-Fi and business facilities have fallen 40% or more so far this year compared with 2019.

Focusing on Family Time
Many families missed out on quality vacation time together the past several years. Looking to make up for lost time, searches for hotels with cribs, child care and connecting rooms have increased by double-digit percentages compared with 2019. Four-legged family members are also included, as interest in pet-friendly stays is up 35% this year.

Bringing Back Breakfast
Once one of the top amenities, free breakfast buffets fell a few pegs amid the pandemic in favor of pre-packaged grab-and-go items. This year, however, searches for hotels with free breakfast are up 75%.

Working Out While on the Go
Working out really wasn’t a top priority for many travelers during the height of the pandemic. In 2021, searches for hotels with gyms were down more than 30% compared with 2019. However, in 2022, year-over-year searches for gyms increased by  65% as travelers are getting back into their wellness routines.

Parking for Free
As travelers continue to favor destinations within driving distance, searches for free parking are up 70% this year. For those who are taking to the skies, properties with free airport transfers are up 105%, as well.

To book your next stay and find a hotel with amenities that suit your travel preferences, visit  Hotels.com or download the app.

SOURCE:
Hotels.com

4 tips for planting trees

(Family Features) Trees are virtually everywhere you turn, from your own backyard to nearby parks and forests where you enjoy hiking. They provide shade and beauty, and some even bear fruit. Beyond all the immediate benefits, you may be surprised to discover trees are also a critical key to the future.

These facts and tips from the book “Now is the Time for Trees” offer practical insight on the importance of trees and how to nurture one from selection to planting and beyond.

A compelling and ever-growing body of evidence generated by scientists, health care professionals, conservationists, humanitarians and both public and private corporations supports the critical importance of trees and their impact on the human condition. Trees filter pollutants out of the air and water and provide protection for people and communities from dangerous heat and flooding. They lower urban temperatures, reduce energy bills and sequester carbon to slow the rate of climate change.

When you plant a tree in your yard or neighborhood, that tree goes to work filtering out pollutants, intercepting stormwater and capturing carbon. With proper placement, that tree can also help lower household energy use by as much as 20%.

You can engage in the tree planting movement and make a difference by planting trees around your home and surrounding community with these tips.

Consider the Growing Region

Choosing a tree that will flourish in your growing region is fundamental to becoming a successful tree planter. Start by getting familiar with the growing conditions of your planting site, including factors like sunlight, soil condition and room to grow.

The amount of available sunlight at your planting location will determine which tree species will be successful. Most trees require full sunlight for proper growth and flowering. Some do well in (or even prefer) partial or light shade, but few perform well in dense shade.

Before you plant, get your soil tested by a lab to evaluate what’s happening underground. Test results, which are usually returned in a couple of weeks, provide a complete analysis of nutrients, possible contamination and pH (alkalinity or acidity), as well as directions for correcting problems.

Be conscious of overhead or underground utilities, pavement, buildings, other trees, traffic intersections and other factors that may impact your planting space.

Shopping for a Tree

When choosing which kind of tree to plant, be conscious of details like size, flowering, color (including how colors may vary through the seasons) and your view from inside the house. While shopping, you can rely on plant labels to learn details about a tree’s growth pattern, sun requirements, watering needs and soil requirements.

Two common styles of trees are container-grown trees, which spend their entire nursery lives growing in a container, and ball-and-burlap trees, which grow in the ground until they achieve a targeted size.

A well-tended container-grown tree has been carefully monitored and moved into larger containers as the plant grows. Be wary of a tree with roots that circle or twist within the container, which may cause roots to die. For a ball-and-burlap tree, look for a firm, securely tied root ball that is large enough to support the mature tree; it should be about 10-12 inches wide for every inch of trunk diameter.

Prepare Your Planting Site

Properly preparing your planting site is one of the best things you can do to get your tree off to a strong start. Before you plant, make sure your tree is thoroughly hydrated by watering the container or root ball several hours before proceeding. When planting a tree into a lawn, remove a circle of grass at least 3 feet in diameter where the tree will go to reduce competition between turf and fine tree roots.

Start Digging

Dig a broad, shallow planting hole with gently sloping sides 3-4 times wider than the diameter of the root mass and the same depth. Mound removed soil on a tarp for easy backfilling. Loosening the soil on the sides of the hole allows roots to easily expand and establish faster, but don’t disturb soil at the bottom of the hole.

Once the tree is positioned, replace the soil while firmly but gently tamping the original soil around the base of the root ball to stabilize it. Create a water-holding basin around the tree by building up a ring of soil and water to settle roots. Spread protective mulch 2-4 inches deep in a 3-foot diameter around the base of the tree, but not touching the trunk.

Find more tips to successfully plant and care for your trees at arborday.org.

A Handy Guide for Planting Trees

A rally cry against climate change, “Now is the Time for Trees” is an inspirational and informative guide that explains the important role trees can play in preserving the environment.

Author Dan Lambe, CEO of the Arbor Day Foundation, offers compelling reasons to plant more trees while providing simple, actionable steps to get involved, choose the right tree and achieve planting success. For each book sold, the foundation will plant a tree in a forest in need.

Pick up a copy wherever books are sold or visit arborday.org/TimeforTreesBook.

The Power of Trees

From backyards to tropical rain forests, trees provide the necessities of life. Trees clean air and water, provide habitats for wildlife, connect communities and support human health.

• Trees are a proven affordable, natural way to pull carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
• Trees filter water and slow storm surge and flooding in cities.
• Trees provide shade, cooling cities by up to 10 degrees, which can help prevent heat-related deaths.
• Neighborhood trees can reduce stress, improve overall health in children and encourage physical activity. 
• Trees support wildlife and aquatic life by providing habitats and helping keep waterways healthy, which ensures ecosystem balance and promotes biodiversity.
• Trees and other forest life work together to ensure a clean source of drinking water, buffer against extreme weather, provide medicines, offer outdoor recreation and enrich human culture.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

SOURCE:
Arbor Day Foundation

(Family Features) In a world fraught with social, political and environmental strife, a mindset that involves a more community-driven approach can make a meaningful difference. Each person’s contributions to improve the earth can send a ripple effect that ultimately transforms communities and the people who live within them.

Consider these examples of actions you can take, some bigger than others, that benefit the larger community.

Create Shared Common Spaces

Nearly every community can benefit from the addition of resources that benefit multiple families. Examples include community gardens, playgrounds, parks and sites for regular farmers’ markets, to name a few. These may be wholly new projects or restoring facilities that have faded into disrepair over time. Acquiring the space is often the greatest challenge, but if you’re inspired to lead such an effort, forming a committee of like-minded peers can be an effective step toward raising the funds to create a project that benefits the community at large.

Donate to Charitable Causes

Supporting the efforts of existing organizations that help fill gaps in your community is another way you can make a difference. Offering your time as a volunteer is one option. You might provide extra hands for relatively simple jobs like sorting food or clothing donations, or if you have a particular skill, talent or training, donating your time and expertise could help offset administrative expenses and help the organization operate more efficiently. That ultimately means the organization can more effectively deliver on its mission.

Financial contributions are also a meaningful way to support a worthwhile cause in your community. Writing a check may not feel as personal as getting hands-on to help, but without the support of financial donors, philanthropic organizations simply couldn’t provide the community resources they do. Many organizations will tell you what level of contribution would be most helpful based on their current fundraising needs, and you may have options for a one-time or ongoing gift.

Snack Smarter

When you’re thinking in terms of how to improve your community, your eating choices may not be on your radar. However, what you eat has a major impact on the community in multiple ways. That’s why you hear a great deal of talk about sustainability directed at food production, which affects the environment in numerous ways along the food supply chain, from air pollution to waste to energy consumption. By choosing ingredients and foods that minimize the impact on the environment, you can show food manufacturers that consumers want products sourced and produced responsibly.  

One example is Airly Oat Cloud crackers; each box explains how many grams of carbon dioxide you are helping remove from the air by supporting an innovative farming technique, which makes agriculture a solution, not a contributor, to climate change. Sustainable can be tasty, too. Made with real, wholesome and 100% delicious ingredients, all four flavor varieties (Cheddar, Sea Salt, Chocolate and Salted Caramel) make for satisfying, convenient anytime snacks.

Support Local Businesses

Particularly over the past couple of years, local businesses have fought hard to stay open, modifying their services, adapting to the times and generally trying to keep themselves and their local employees afloat. Rewarding those efforts by shopping in their stores and hiring their services keeps your money within the local community while keeping your friends and neighbors employed.

Those benefits aside, there are practical advantages to doing your shopping locally, such as lower emissions and energy consumption for transportation to and from the store or business. What’s more, businesses that are thriving tend to be stronger corporate citizens, supporting the community’s development and philanthropic needs for a true domino effect.

Clean Up Public Spaces

Beautification projects not only make your community a more inviting place to be, they can actually be good for the earth. Removing litter allows natural vegetation and wildlife to thrive, reduces health risks and promotes safety by sending a clear message that the community cares about its space.

Litter management can spur tourism and economic benefits, as well, since more attractive places attract more people. What’s more, clean-up initiatives bring neighbors together for a shared cause, and that goodwill generally transcends the one-time event to create a greater sense of connectivity among residents.

You can learn more about ways to take personal action to promote a better world at AirlyFoods.com.

A Recipe That Tastes Good While Doing Good

Even the best-tasting desserts can be prepared with thoughtful ingredients and habits that promote sustainability. This Better Than Mama’s Banana Pudding recipe features responsibly sourced products, compostable ingredients and other options to be earth-friendly, including recyclable packaging.

Better Than Mama’s Banana Pudding

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2  teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 stick butter, cut into 4 tablespoons
• 2 eggs
• 3 tablespoons vanilla
• 1 box Airly Chocolate or Salted Caramel Crackers
• 4 medium bananas, sliced
• whipped topping (optional)

1. In medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk sugar, brown sugar, salt, flour, evaporated milk, milk, butter and eggs continuously until mixture begins to simmer and thicken, 8-10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Cover with plastic wrap touching pudding. Let rest 1 hour in refrigerator.
3. Layer 8-by-8-inch pan with crackers, reserving some for topping; sliced bananas; and pudding. Repeat layers then top with whipped topping, if desired, and sprinkle with crushed crackers.

Tips: Banana peels and eggshells can be composted. Evaporated milk can and cracker box can be recycled.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images (gardener and volunteers)

SOURCE:
Airly Foods

(Culinary.net) Easter is about coming together with loved ones, enjoying beautiful spring weather and eating your family’s favorite foods. The kids will be playing, adults will be chatting and all will be patiently waiting for the table to be set.

If you’re visiting and making memories with family and friends you haven’t seen in a while, there are few things better than diving into a marvelous Easter spread.

While eyeing the table, you notice all the colors popping off the dishes. Fruits and veggies make the feast come to life, but a warm Easter dip paired with rolls for dipping is a perfect way to start the festivities.

These Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip are as eye-catching as they are delicious. Not only will the kids love its shape, but the layers of taste will wow your Easter crowd.

To make this recipe, start by combining a 16-ounce package of frozen spinach, cream cheese and garlic in a skillet. Once heated, add mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder and Italian seasoning.

Add in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses then stir until combined.

Next, roll out crescent rolls. Stretch the dough then cut into 24 rolls.

Form the bunny shape and scoop your spinach dip mixture into the center of the bunny and its ears. Sprinkle the spinach dip with mozzarella cheese before baking at 375 F for 18 minutes.

This dish is made for a crowd, served warm and full of cheesy goodness. You can watch as your family dips into the spinach and one-by-one, before you know it, the rolls will have disappeared and the dip will be devoured.

Find more Easter recipes at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Easter Bunny Rolls with Spinach Dip

Serves: 24

• 16        ounces frozen spinach, thawed                                                         
• 8          ounces cream cheese
• 2          cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2       cup mayonnaise
• 1/2       teaspoon salt
• 1/2       teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4       teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4       teaspoon pepper
• 1          teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1          cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2    cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2          crescent roll tubes (8 ounces each)

1. Heat oven to 375 F.
2. In skillet, over medium heat, cook spinach, cream cheese and garlic 3-4 minutes until cream cheese is melted. Stir in mayonnaise, salt, onion powder, chili powder, pepper and Italian seasoning. Stir in Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Cook until cheese is melted. Keep skillet on burner over low heat.
3. Remove dough from tubes. Leaving dough intact, roll and stretch into 18-inch ropes. Cut each rope into 12 pieces for 24 total.
4. On baking sheet with parchment paper, form bunny head by placing one piece of dough in middle then surrounding it with six more pieces. Use 13 pieces to form round body. Use remaining pieces to form ears on top of head.
5. Scoop hot spinach dip into center. Spoon small portions on each ear. Sprinkle ears and belly with remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake 18 minutes, or until crescent dough is golden brown and thoroughly cooked.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

6 tips to bring your family together to decorate eggs

(Family Features) Easter is about traditions, both old and new, as well as celebrating family and creating lifelong memories. In fact, nearly 8 out of 10 Americans will celebrate the holiday this year, according to the National Retail Federation, which often includes egg decorating amongst the fun.

Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back to the 13th century. Eggs were once viewed as a forbidden food to some religious entities, so people would paint or decorate them to highlight the end of penance and fasting.

Yet still today, coloring eggs can help bring the whole family together and inspire simple moments of connection and creativity. From dunking eggs in neon dyes to embellishing them with paint, glitter and more, PAAS® brand – named after the Dutch word for Easter, “Passen” – offers these expert Easter egg dyeing tips based on its 140 years of experience.

Keep It Clean – Wash your hands in hot, soapy water before and after handling eggs, even if they’ve already been cooked or decorated. This helps protect you from any bacteria that may be on the egg and protects the eggshell from oil on hands that may make the dye not adhere properly. Make sure an adult supervises all projects to ensure food safety precautions are observed.

Hard Cook, Don’t Hard Boil – Although the cooking water must come to a full boil, the pan should be immediately removed from heat so the eggs can cook gently in the hot water. This method produces tender, not rubbery eggs and minimizes cracking.

Banish the Greenish Ring – This harmless but unsightly discoloration sometimes forms around hard-cooked yolks as a result of a reaction between sulfur in the egg white and iron in the yolk. It occurs when eggs have been cooked for too long or at too high a temperature. Cooking eggs in hot, not boiling water then cooling immediately helps minimize this discoloration.

Make Them “Apeeling” – To ensure easily peeled eggs, buy and refrigerate them 7-10 days in advance of cooking. This brief “breather” allows the eggs time to take in air, which helps separate the membranes from the shell.

Store Eggs Safely – In the shell, hard-cooked eggs can be refrigerated safely for up to one week. Refrigerating them in their original carton prevents odor absorption. Once peeled, eggs should be eaten that day. Piercing shells before cooking is not recommended. If not sterile, the piercer or needle can introduce bacteria into the egg. Also, piercing creates hairline cracks in the shell through which bacteria can enter after cooking.

Tap Into Your Creative Side – You don’t have to be highly creative to create an “eggceptional” egg. Use your imagination to create appealing eggs by gluing on fun materials found at craft stores, like fake gems, sequins, trims and ribbons. You can also use paint, including gold or silver metallic paint, to make eggs special. An option like PAAS egg decorating kits can help make the process more convenient and fun.

Find more tips and ideas to bring your family together this Easter at paaseastereggs.com.

How to Hard Cook Eggs

Hard-cooked eggs are best when you want a sturdy egg for hiding and to eat when you’re done. They are also easier for younger children to handle. Eggs can be hard-boiled or baked to achieve tender eggs perfect for dyeing. Consider these tips from the Easter egg decorating experts at PAAS to cook eggs for decorating:

Hard Boil Directions

• Place eggs in saucepan large enough to hold them in single layer.
• Add cold water to cover eggs by 1 inch.
• Heat pan over high heat until just boiling.
• Remove pan from burner.
• Cover pan.
• Let eggs stand in hot water about 15 minutes for large eggs. Time may need adjusted for smaller or larger eggs.
• Cool completely under cold running water or in bowl of ice water.
• Refrigerate until ready to use.

Baking Directions

• Preheat oven to 325 F.
• Place eggs individually in muffin tins to prevent them from rolling while cooking.
• Cook 30 minutes.
• Fill large bowl with ice water. Set aside.
• Remove eggs from oven.
• Transfer eggs carefully, one-by-one into ice water using tongs.
• Remove from water after 10 minutes.
• Refrigerate until ready to use.

Egg Decorating Kits to Make Egg Dyeing Easy

There’s more than one way to dye an egg. To meet various needs and interests, PAAS offers a variety of kits, including:

• Traditional Kits – Deluxe, Classic and Color Cup kits allow families to create a full spectrum of colored eggs.
• Craft Kits – Craft kits help users create their own one-of-a-kind works of art, such as color whipping eggs, adding sparkles or speckles, or creating neon tie-dyed eggs.
• Eggsperiment – Active Volcano – This kit allows users to dye eggs by lowering them into an overflowing volcano.
• Craft-A-Scene – These kits, which come in multiple versions, offer not only dyes and decorations to create character eggs, but also different backdrops that can be used in stop motion movies using a free app.
• Themed Eggs – These include Dino Eggs, Forest Friends, Rides and Superheroes kits that allow families to bring characters to life.

SOURCE:
PAAS

(Culinary.net) When celebrating with family, there is nearly nothing better than passing a light and sweet dessert around the table. These Simple Macaroons are crisp, dipped in decedent chocolate and a completely scrumptious option for celebrating Passover.

Simple to make and easy to eat, this sweet dessert is a crowd favorite. With a fresh kick of lemon zest and crunch of shredded coconut, they are a bite-sized, delicious way to end your meal.

They take little to no time to make, only baking 10-12 minutes for a tray full of tasty dessert bites ready to devour.

With sweet honey and vanilla, the flavors come together to create something sweet but not overpowering. It’s a small, crumbly bite that’s perfect for sharing during Passover.

Find more sweet treat recipes for any holiday at Culinary.net.

Watch video to see how to make this recipe!

Simple Macaroons

Recipe adapted from marthastewart.com
Yield: 15 macaroons

• 1          large egg
• 2 1/4    tablespoons honey
• 1/4       teaspoon vanilla extract
• grated lemon zest
• 1/4       teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4    cups shredded coconut
• 5          ounces dark chocolate, melted

1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. In bowl, whisk egg. Add honey, vanilla, lemon zest and salt; whisk. Stir in coconut until completely coated with egg mixture.
3. Using 1 1/2-inch ice cream scoop, make 15 balls, transferring each to parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
4. Bake macaroons 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through, until coconut starts to brown on edges.
5. Transfer sheet to wire rack and let cool.
6. Before serving, drizzle with melted chocolate or dip bottom sides of macaroons in melted chocolate to cover bases. Refrigerate 15 minutes to set.

SOURCE:
Culinary.net

(Family Features) Sometimes forgotten amidst the pandemic that upended the world is a global learning crisis that forced more than 1.6 billion children out of school.

This immense loss of learning and development resulted in permanent setbacks for an entire generation – disproportionately affecting girls, according to a joint report between UNICEF, UNESCO and the World Bank. More than 10 million girls who left school temporarily as a result of the COVID-19 lockdowns may never return. Dropping out of school can negatively impact girls for their entire lives. In terms of child marriage, this pandemic could force 10 million more girls to marry by 2030.

Even in times of crisis, girls have an equal right to quality education and learning. You can play a role in ensuring girls all around the world have the opportunity to fulfill their potential. An organization like UNICEF USA has resources to help girls receive a quality education.

Advocate for the Keeping Girls in School Act
One way to take action in the fight for girls’ education is by urging members of Congress to co-sponsor and help pass the Keeping Girls in School Act.

This bipartisan act would empower girls around the world by authorizing the U.S. Agency for International Development to enter into innovative and result-based grant programs that reduce barriers adolescent girls face in receiving educations. By investing in girls’ educations, barriers such as child marriage, harassment, violence, care burdens and negative gender norms keeping girls from long-term, quality education can be put to an end. Evidence shows enrolling and keeping girls in school results in a positive impact on their health and economic prosperity as well as the improvement of the security of their communities and countries.

To help streamline the process, UNICEF USA’s Keeping Girls in School Act page allows you to send an email to your representative in one click.

Support Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Programs
Accessible WASH programs can help prevent girls from missing school and falling into child labor, adolescent pregnancy and forced marriage. For many girls, schools provide a lifeline, offering vital information and support (on-site or through referral services) for nutrition; menstrual hygiene management; and broader psychosocial, sexual and reproductive health needs.

Annually, UNICEF invests $1 billion in WASH programs in more than 110 countries. These funds go toward building solar-powered water pumps for communities; providing education on and products for menstrual hygiene management; equipping schools with private changing rooms, single-sex bathrooms and handwashing stations; and more.

To learn more about how you can support these programs and help ensure every girl’s right to education is realized, visit unicefusa.org/WASHforEducation.

SOURCE:
UNICEF

(Culinary.net) Warmer days at the start of spring mean Easter is almost here, and the big bunny himself will be hopping around in no time delivering goodies.

This Easter, celebrate with your loved ones with a delicious and colorful Easter Bunny Butt Cake. It can bring smiles and laughter while putting everyone in a light, joyful mood.

This cake is fun and bright with a fluffy, moist interior. Complete with chocolate candy eggs, shredded coconut and chocolate chips for little bunny toes, this recipe goes all out to paint a picture of the Easter bunny.

Start by combining whole eggs, egg whites, cream of coconut, crushed pineapple, coconut extract and vanilla extract.

In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Then add butter gradually, 6 tablespoons at a time, for a total of 12 tablespoons.

Add dry mixture to a mixing bowl then add egg mixture half at a time. Beat until cake batter is formed.

Fill muffin tins 2/3 full and bake 18-20 minutes. The remaining batter goes into an oven-safe bowl to bake for 1 hour, 40 minutes.

The buttercream frosting is made with powdered sugar, butter, milk, vanilla extract and coconut extract.

Assemble the cake using pretzel sticks to blend it together to make the bunny butt shape. Frost the cake and spread shredded coconut over it to create a textured appearance. Stick chocolate chips on the bunny’s feet to create toes. Place your favorite Easter or bunny candies around the cake for extra garnish.

This cake is worth every step. It’s delicious and as cute as can be, plus it’s perfect for dessert after a big Easter dinner.

Find more creative and scrumptious holiday recipes at Culinary.net.

Easter Bunny Butt Cake
Servings: 10-12

Nonstick cooking spray
2 eggs, plus 4 egg whites, at room temperature
3/4 cup cream of coconut
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
2 teaspoons coconut extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups flour
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

Buttercream Frosting:
3 cups powdered sugar
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon coconut extract

4 thin pretzel sticks
1 bag (10 ounces) sweetened shredded coconut
8 drops green food coloring
2 large round chocolate candy melts
6 chocolate chips
mini candy-coated chocolate eggs, for garnish

Heat oven to 325 F.

Line muffin pan with four paper liners. Spray oven-safe glass bowl with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, whisk eggs, egg whites, cream of coconut, pineapple, coconut extract and vanilla extract until combined.

In food processor, pulse flour, sugar, baking powder and salt until combined. Add 6 tablespoons butter. Pulse until combined. Add remaining butter. Pulse until coarse meal forms.

In large mixing bowl, add coarse flour butter meal. Add half of egg mixture. Beat 1-2 minutes. Add remaining egg mixture; beat until combined.

Fill each muffin cup 2/3 full. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until done. Cool completely.

Pour remaining batter into prepared oven-safe bowl. Bake 1 hour, 40 minutes, or until done. Cool completely.

To make buttercream frosting: In large bowl, add powdered sugar and butter; beat until fluffy. Add milk, vanilla extract and coconut extract; beat until creamy.

Turn bowl upside-down on cake stand until cake removes from bowl. If cake needs leveled, turn cake over and trim to flatten. Frost cake.

Remove wrappers from cupcakes. Using two pretzel sticks, press into base of cupcakes
and anchor to bottom rim of bowl cake to create bunny feet. Frost feet.

Take third cupcake and cut muffin top off. Cut muffin top in half. Using one pretzel stick, anchor one muffin top half at bottom of full cupcake to form toes. Repeat with second muffin top half for other foot. Frost toes.

Attach final cupcake with remaining pretzel stick to butt area of cake to make tail. Frost tail.

Apply 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut all over cake. Press chocolate candy melts into bottoms of bunny feet to resemble foot pads. Add chocolate chips to resemble pads for toes.

Place remaining coconut in plastic bag. Add green food coloring. Toss in bag until coconut is colored. Spread around base of cake for grass. Decorate grass with chocolate eggs.

Tips: Spoon flour into dry measuring cup and level off excess. Scooping directly from bag compacts flour, resulting in dry baked goods. Add 1 tablespoon additional milk if frosting is too stiff. Keep adding until desired consistency.

Family Features

With people across the country observing Lent, a religious tradition observed during the 40 days before Easter, it’s time to rethink the standard family meal menu.

This nearly eight-week period typically calls for a special diet. Specifically, red meat is cut out on Fridays for some and for the entirety of Lent for others. According to Datassential, 26 percent of consumers observe lent and of those, 41 percent said they eat fish on Fridays instead of meat.

Eating two servings of seafood per week – as recommended by the Dietary Guidelines for Americans – is one way to make a positive commitment to you and your family’s health during Lent and throughout the year. According to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, research shows eating seafood 2-3 times per week reduces the risk of death from any health-related cause. Seafood also provides unique health benefits as a lean protein and is a quality source for omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy fats essential to human health and development.

With so many seafood options available, including Alaskan cod, snapper, salmon and more, it can be easy to incorporate this nutritious lean protein into your diet.

This simple recipe for Blackened Catfish with Quinoa and Citrus Vinaigrette can help you on your way to a more nutritious meal plan that includes consuming seafood.

Blackened Catfish with Quinoa and Citrus Vinaigrette

Recipe courtesy of chef Tim Hughes on behalf of the Seafood Nutrition Partnership
Servings: 4

Blackening Seasoning:
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon pepper
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon thyme

Quinoa Salad:
1 tablespoon peanut oil
1 cup corn, canned and drained or frozen and thawed to room temperature
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
1/2 cup edamame, shelled and thawed to room
temperature
3 cups quinoa, cooked

Blackened Catfish:
1 tablespoon peanut oil
1 pound catfish, cut into four fillets
5 tablespoons Blackening Seasoning

Citrus Vinaigrette:
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil

To make Blackening Seasoning: Combine salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder and thyme.

To make Quinoa Salad: Heat and oil skillet. Add corn; salt and pepper, to taste, and saute until golden brown. Add edamame and sauteed corn to quinoa and set aside.

To make Blackened Catfish: Heat cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon peanut oil added. Coat both sides of catfish fillets with Blackening Seasoning. Add catfish to skillet and cook 5-6 minutes per side, or until well done.

To make Citrus Vinaigrette: Whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, honey and thyme. Slowly add olive oil, whisking until dressing is formed.

Serve Blackened Catfish on top of Quinoa Salad and drizzle with Citrus Vinaigrette.