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🍋 Lemon Basil Pasta Salad via Plantbasedrd on Instagram

Posted on April 9, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on 🍋 Lemon Basil Pasta Salad via Plantbasedrd on Instagram

Occasionally, you come across a recipe that makes you get off the couch and see what ingredients you have in the cupboard to make it.
And I mean, make it right now! That is what Catherine Perez did when she created this yummy pasta salad and posted it on Instagram. I bet this would be delicious chilled, too.

🍋 Lemon Basil Pasta Salad

Here is the ingredient list:

1 large zucchini, cut into 3/4 inch half moons (try asparagus as an alternative cut on a bias)
8 oz of orecchiette pasta
2-3 cups spinach, roughly chopped
1, 6.5 oz jar of marinated artichoke hearts, diced
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 medium red onion, diced
1 medium lemon, fully zested and cut in half
1/4 cup fresh basil, stems removed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, stems removed
1-2 cloves of garlic, grated (to taste)
3 tbsp pepitas or sunflower seeds
1/4 cup plain unsweetened plant based yogurt
1 tsp yellow miso paste
Kosher salt to taste

Be sure to visit her page to find complete instructions and many more recipes, too.

Enjoy,

~Kelly

Recipes, Vegetarian

Kelly’s Simple Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

Posted on January 21, 2024January 22, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Kelly’s Simple Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Kelly's Simple Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Kelly’s Simple Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Kelly’s Simple-Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 16 large white mushrooms (you can also use portabello mushrooms)
  • 1/2 pound (225g) ground sausage
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup finely diced bell pepper (any color)
  • Two cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Two tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems. Set the mushroom caps aside and finely chop the stalks.
  3. In a skillet, cook the ground sausage over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
  4. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
  5. Add a little olive oil, if needed, in the same skillet, then add the chopped mushroom stems, onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, which should take about 5 minutes.
  6. Stir in the breadcrumbs and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they become lightly toasted.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked sausage, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well.
  8. Place the mushroom caps on a baking sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil.
  9. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture, pressing it down slightly.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
  11. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious sausage-stuffed mushrooms as a delightful appetizer or party snack! Are you looking for other recipes to enjoy with Kelly’s Simple Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms? You can visit allrecipes for over 113,000 original recipes and counting!

Have a beautiful day,

Kelly

Recipes

Self-Help Closet & Pantry Illinois

Posted on January 20, 2024January 22, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Self-Help Closet & Pantry Illinois
Self Hep Pantry & Closet
Self-Help closet & pantry of Des Plaines, Illinois

 Self-Help Closet & Pantry is here to help.

The Self-Help Closet & Pantry of Des Plaines, Illinois, is a beacon of hope and assistance for community members facing challenging times. This vital institution is dedicated to alleviating food insecurity and supporting individuals and families in need. Recognizing the importance of nutrition and basic necessities, the pantry offers a range of services tailored to empower and uplift those it serves.

With a compassionate approach, the Self-Help Closet & Pantry ensures that residents of Des Plaines have access to nutritious food items, helping them maintain a balanced diet even during tough financial periods. The pantry’s shelves are stocked with various goods, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of the community. Beyond food assistance, the pantry also provides clothing and other essential household items, acknowledging the comprehensive needs of those facing hardship.

Community involvement and volunteerism are the cornerstones of the pantry’s operations. Driven by a mission to foster a supportive and caring environment, the Self-Help Closet & Pantry encourages local residents to contribute by donating goods, offering financial support, or volunteering time. This collective effort strengthens the pantry’s resources and reinforces the sense of community solidarity.

Moreover, the pantry actively collaborates with local organizations, schools, and businesses to maximize its outreach and effectiveness. By creating partnerships and networks, the Self-Help Closet & Pantry ensures a sustained and impactful presence in Des Plaines, truly embodying the spirit of neighbor helping neighbor. Whether it’s through direct aid or community engagement, the pantry is deeply committed to making a positive and lasting difference in the lives of those it serves.

You must be a resident of Des Plaines or have children who attend Des Plaines public schools. Register for the first time on a Tuesday between 12:30 and 2:00 p.m. or Saturday between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m. You can visit the Pantry only one time each calendar month.

For further information, please visit the Self-Help Closet & Pantry homepage here.

For additional resources, you can visit our Get Help page.

Peace be with you!

~Kelly

Family

Free Avon Nurtura Replenishing Creme with Any Skincare Purchase!

Posted on January 18, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Free Avon Nurtura Replenishing Creme with Any Skincare Purchase!

Free Avon Nurtura Replenishing Creme with Any Skincare Purchase!

Quantities are limited, and the offer is valid until Campaign 02 closes on 01/30/2024 at 11:59 PM ET / 8:59 PM PT.
Create an account and enjoy Free Shipping on orders $60+

Place your order by 11:59 PM ET (8:59 PM PT) to count as an order for campaign 2. Orders will ship within two business days.

Kelly Gilbert
Independent Avon Representative

Avon

Avon Love is in the Air Sweepstakes

Posted on January 17, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Avon Love is in the Air Sweepstakes

Official Rules:

Love Is in the Air Sweepstakes. NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.

ELIGIBILITY: OPEN ONLY TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE FIFTY (50) UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, WHO ARE AT LEAST 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER, INCLUDING AUTHORIZED AVON INDEPENDENT SALES REPRESENTATIVES. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Employees (and their immediate families (parent, child, spouse or sibling and their respective spouses, regardless of where they reside) and those living in their same households, whether or not related) of The Avon Company (“Sponsor”), its parent, subsidiaries, affiliated companies and advertising and promotion agencies and fulfillment providers are not eligible to enter or win. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsor, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.

SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The sweepstakes begins at 2:00 a.m. Eastern Time (“ET”) on January 17, 2024 and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on February 13, 2024 (“Sweepstakes Period”).

TO ENTER: During the Sweepstakes Period, visit Avon.com, click on the Sweepstakes link and follow the directions to complete and submit the entry form. All entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. ET on February 13, 2024. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged.

DRAWINGS: Potential winners will be selected in a random drawing on or about February 27, 2024 from all eligible entries received. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an affidavit of eligibility, a liability release and, where lawful, a publicity release within seven (7) days of date of issuance. If such documents are not returned within the specified time period, a prize or prize notification is returned as undeliverable, a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, or Sponsor is unable to contact the potential winner within a reasonable time period, prize will be forfeited and, at Sponsor’s discretion, an alternate winner selected. If a potential winner is at least 18 but still considered a minor in his/her jurisdiction of residence, prize may be awarded in the name of his/her parent or legal guardian who will be responsible for fulfilling all requirements imposed on winners set forth herein.

PRIZES (4): One (1) Rare Pearls Eau de Parfum, One (1) fmg Glimmer Lip & Cheek Stain in Rosette, One (1) fmg Colors of LOVE Glow Balm Duo Illuminating Stick in Heartthrob, One (1) ffmg Colors of LOVE Glow Beads Illuminating Powder in Queen of Hearts, One (1) fmg Colors of Love Hi-Brow Tinted Brow Gel in Brown Black, One (1) fmg Cashmere Eyeshadow Palette in Essential Eyes, One (1) fmg Glimmer SuperShock Volumizing Mascara, One (1) fmg Cashmere 24HR Cream Eyeliner in Midnight, One (1) Skin So Soft Bonus-Size Soft & Sensual Bath Oil, One (1) Skin So Soft Soft & Sensual Body Lotion, One (1) Skin So Soft Soft & Sensual Shower Gel, One (1) Rare Pearls Hair & Body Mist, One (1) fmg Cashmere Essence Lipcream in Summer Berry, One (1) Stainless Steel Valentine’s Two-Pair Earring Pack, One (1) Sterling Silver Heart with Pearl Pendant Necklace, One (1) Sterling Silver Heart with Pearl Stud Earrings, One (1) Stainless Steel CZ Tennis Bracelet, One (1) fmg Glimmer Satin Lipstick in Stellar, One (1) Farm Rx Amazon Berry Boost Moisturizing & Firming Mask, One (1) Farm Rx Amazon Berry Boost Lifting & Firming Serum.

Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”): $563. Total ARV of all prizes: $2,252. Prizes are awarded “as is” with no warranty or guarantee, either express or implied. Prizes cannot be redeemed for cash. Winners may not substitute, assign or transfer a prize, but Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to substitute a prize (or portion thereof) of comparable or greater value. Winners are responsible for all federal, state and local taxes as well as any other costs and expenses associated with prize acceptance and use. All prize details are at Sponsor’s sole discretion. Limit one (1) prize per person/email address/household.

PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of a prize, except where legally prohibited, grants permission for Sponsor and its designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph, voice and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes (including, but not limited to, announcing winner’s name on the Avon page on Facebook or via Avon’s other social media accounts) without further compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval.

LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: Released Parties (as defined below) are not responsible for lost, late, incomplete, inaccurate, stolen, delayed, misdirected, undelivered or garbled entries, referral, links or emails; or for lost, interrupted or unavailable network, server, Internet Service Provider (ISP), website, or other connections, availability or accessibility or miscommunications or failed computer, satellite, telephone or cable transmissions, lines, or technical failure or jumbled, scrambled, delayed, or misdirected transmissions or computer hardware or software malfunctions, failures or difficulties, or other errors or difficulties of any kind whether human, mechanical, electronic, computer, network, typographical, printing or otherwise relating to or in connection with the sweepstakes, including, without limitation, errors or difficulties which may occur in connection with the administration of the sweepstakes, the malfunction of any unique referral link, the processing of entries, the announcement of the prizes, or in any sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are also not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, whether caused by site users, tampering, hacking, or by any equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the sweepstakes. Released Parties are not responsible for injury or damage to participants’ or to any other person’s computer related to or resulting from participating in this sweepstakes or downloading materials from or use of the website. Persons who tamper with or abuse any aspect of the sweepstakes or website or who are in violation of these Official Rules, as solely determined by Sponsor, will be disqualified and all associated entries will be void. Sponsor reserves the right at its sole discretion to suspend, modify or terminate the sweepstakes (or any portion thereof) should any portion of the sweepstakes be, in Sponsor’s sole opinion, compromised by virus, worms, bugs, non-authorized human intervention or other causes which, in the sole opinion of the Sponsor, corrupt or impair the administration, security, fairness or proper play, or submission of entries. If terminated, Sponsor may, at its discretion, select the potential winners from all eligible, non-suspect entries received prior to action taken or as otherwise deemed fair and appropriate by Sponsor. Entrants, by participating, agree that Sponsor and its respective parents, subsidiaries, divisions, affiliated companies, advertising and promotion agencies and fulfillment providers, and all of their respective officers, directors, employees, representatives and agents (collectively, “Released Parties”) will have no liability whatsoever for, and shall be held harmless by entrants against, any liability, for any injuries, losses or damages of any kind, including death, to persons, or property resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, from acceptance, possession, misuse or use of any prize or participation in this sweepstakes. In the event of a dispute regarding entries received from multiple users having the same e-mail account, the authorized subscriber of the e-mail account at the time of entry will be deemed to be the entrant and must comply with these rules. Authorized account subscriber is the natural person who is assigned the e-mail address by the Internet Service Provider (ISP), on-line service provider, or other organization responsible for assigning e-mail addresses. CAUTION: ANY ATTEMPT TO DELIBERATELY DAMAGE THE WEBSITE OR UNDERMINE THE LEGITIMATE OPERATION OF THE SWEEPSTAKES MAY BE IN VIOLATION OF CRIMINAL AND CIVIL LAWS AND SHOULD SUCH AN ATTEMPT BE MADE, SPONSOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO SEEK DAMAGES AND OTHER REMEDIES (INCLUDING ATTORNEYS’ FEES) FROM ANY SUCH INDIVIDUAL TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THE LAW, INCLUDING CRIMINAL PROSECUTION.

WINNERS LIST: The winners’ list may be obtained after March 12, 2024 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: The Avon Company, 165 Broadway, Digital Marketing, New York NY 10006, for receipt by April 15, 2024.

SPONSOR: The Avon Company, 165 Broadway, New York NY 10006.

This sweepstakes is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, which are not affiliated with Sponsor in any way.

Uncategorized

Enter to Win: Avon Love is in the Air Sweepstakes

Posted on January 17, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Enter to Win: Avon Love is in the Air Sweepstakes

Avon Love is in the Air Sweepstakes

Good evening! Avon has just posted a new monthly sweepstakes.

Avon Love is in the Air Product List

Enter to win the Avon Love is in the Air Sweepstakes. 4 winners will be chosen, and prizes are valued at $563. Click here for the full details. No purchase is necessary. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & DC, including authorized independent Avon sales representatives 18 and older. The sweepstakes ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on 2/13/24. Void where prohibited.

WINNERS LIST: The winners’ list may be obtained after March 12, 2024, by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to The Avon Company, 165 Broadway, Digital Marketing, New York, NY 10006, for receipt by April 15, 2024.

Good luck, everyone!

Kelly Gilbert
Independent Avon Representative

Avon

Why do I Set Daily Goals? January 11, 2024

Posted on January 11, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Why do I Set Daily Goals? January 11, 2024

Why do I Set Daily Goals? January 11, 2024

Why do I set daily goals, you ask? Daily goal setting feels like I’m incorporating an element of structure into my daily routine. It’s not just about listing tasks; it’s a systematic approach to progressively realizing my dreams. It is my daily roadmap, guiding me through life’s challenges. Each goal is a step closer to my desired destination. So, I embrace the practice of setting daily goals, and I can see how it enhances my journey toward success.

Today’s goals:
  1. Post my daily goals.
  2. Give Julio his paperwork.
  3. Clear desk of paperwork.
  4. Wash dishes.
  5. Vacuum the house.
  6. Make lunch.
  7. Walk Caleb before I leave for work.
  8. Wash the floors.
  9. Open my new garment rack box.
  10. Take my supplements

I hope this post has inspired you to set daily goals for a more productive day. Don’t forget to keep that goal list in the green! For more goal-setting resources, please click here.

Once again, thank you for being my accountability partners,

XXX

Kelly

Goals

Why do I Set Daily Goals? January 10, 2024

Posted on January 10, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Why do I Set Daily Goals? January 10, 2024

Why do I Set Daily Goals? January 10, 2024

Why do I set daily goals, you ask? Daily goal setting feels like I’m adding a dash of magic to my daily routine. It’s not just about creating a list of tasks; it’s a strategic approach to turning my dreams into reality one step at a time. I think of it as my daily treasure map, guiding me through the maze of life’s challenges. Each goal is like discovering a hidden gem that brings me closer to my desired destination. So, I embrace the practice of daily goal setting, and I can see how it adds a touch of enchantment to my journey toward success.

Today’s goals:
  1. Post my daily goals.
  2. Fold laundry.
  3. Clear desk of paperwork.
  4. Wash dishes.
  5. Put away the remainder of the holiday linens.
  6. Make lunch.
  7. Walk Caleb before I leave for work.
  8. Renew MCPP patient registration.
  9. Fill the coffee jar.
  10. Take my supplements
What kind of goals should I set?

When it comes to setting goals, it’s essential to have a well-rounded approach that addresses various aspects of your life. The three types of goals you should set are:

  1. Short-Term Goals: These are the daily, weekly, or monthly objectives that help you make immediate progress. Short-term goals are like stepping stones, guiding you toward your larger aspirations. Short-term goals keep you motivated and accountable, whether it’s finishing a project at work, going to the gym regularly, or saving a specific amount of money each month. Set daily goals. You won’t regret it.
  2. Medium-Term Goals: Medium-term goals typically span from six months to a few years. They bridge the gap between your short-term and long-term objectives. These goals could involve career advancement, acquiring a new skill, or planning for a significant life event like buying a house or starting a family. Medium-term goals provide a sense of direction and purpose for the near future.
  3. Long-Term Goals: Long-term goals are the big dreams and aspirations that guide your life’s trajectory. They can span several years to a lifetime and often require substantial effort and dedication. Examples include achieving a high-level career position, attaining financial independence, or traveling the world. Long-term goals give you a sense of purpose and a vision to work towards, shaping the course of your life over time.

Setting a mix of short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals creates a comprehensive roadmap that keeps you motivated, focused, and steadily progressing toward the life you envision. Do you need more goal-setting inspiration? Read the following blog post: What is a short-term goal? 44 Examples to Jump-Start Your Year.

I hope this post has inspired you to set daily goals for a more productive day. Don’t forget to keep that goal list in the green.

Once again, thank you for being my accountability partners,

XXX

Kelly

Goals

Sheet Yardage for Savings: Cost-Effective Sewing

Posted on January 6, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Sheet Yardage for Savings: Cost-Effective Sewing

Bed Linens

Sheet Yardage for Savings: Understanding the yardage of bed sheet fabric is crucial for cost-effective sewing. Knowing the dimensions of standard flat sheets allows you to plan your sewing projects efficiently, minimizing waste and saving money on fabric. Whether making clothing, home decor items, quilts, or any other sewing project, this knowledge ensures you purchase the right fabric or utilize existing sheets wisely. It’s an essential skill for sewers who want to maximize their savings while creating beautiful and sustainable projects.

In my previous post, “Maximize Your Savings with Bedsheet Sewing,” we delved into utilizing bedsheets as a thrifty and creative alternative for sewing projects. Today, we’ll look closer at an essential aspect of this cost-effective approach – understanding the dimensions of flat sheets and how many yards of fabric they provide. Whether you’re a seasoned sewing enthusiast or just starting your journey into the world of DIY crafting, knowing the yardage of flat sheets can be a game-changer in optimizing your sewing savings. So, let’s unravel the measurements and explore how to make the most out of your bedsheets when creating beautiful sewing projects.

How Many Yards of Fabric Is Each Flat Sheet?

A standard twin-size flat sheet typically measures approximately 66 inches in width by 96 inches in length. To convert these dimensions to yards:

  • Width: 66 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 1.83 yards
  • Length: 96 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 2.67 yards

So, a twin-size flat sheet is approximately 1.83 yards wide by 2.67 yards long.

A standard full-size flat sheet typically measures approximately 81 inches in width by 96 inches in length. To convert these dimensions to yards:

  • Width: 81 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 2.25 yards
  • Length: 96 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 2.67 yards

So, a full-size flat sheet is approximately 2.25 yards wide by 2.67 yards long.

A standard queen-size flat sheet typically measures approximately 90 inches in width by 102 inches in length. To convert these dimensions to yards:

  • Width: 90 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 2.5 yards
  • Length: 102 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 2.83 yards

So, a queen-size flat sheet is approximately 2.5 yards wide by 2.83 yards long.

A standard king-size flat sheet typically measures approximately 108 inches in width by 102 inches in length. To convert these dimensions to yards:

  • Width: 108 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 3 yards
  • Length: 102 inches ÷ 36 inches/yard ≈ 2.83 yards

So, a king-size flat sheet is approximately 3 yards wide by 2.83 yards long.

I hope this post has simplified the yardage process, making it easier for you to embark on your sewing adventures and maximize your savings while creating beautiful and sustainable projects.

PS If you want some sewing inspiration, check out the post Make a T-Shirt or T-Shirt Dress Out of a Bed Sheet at Instructables.com By HomemadeisBetter.

Happy sewing!

~Kelly

Uncategorized

Now Hiring: Des Plaines, Illinois Park District

Posted on January 4, 2024January 4, 2024 By Kelly Gilbert No Comments on Now Hiring: Des Plaines, Illinois Park District

Now Hiring: Des Plaines, Illinois Park District

If you live in the Des Plaines, Illinois area: The Park District has jobs available.

These positions are an excellent match for:

  • Students looking for a resume builder.
  • Recent graduates wanting to develop skills.
  • Professionals wanting to advance their career.
  • Former retirees who want additional income.

Click here for more information.

Have a beautiful day,

~Kelly

Illinois, Job Opportunities

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