While there's no denying that gratitude truly comes from within, some gentle reminders throughout the day can help us to slow down enough to truly savor the small moments.

More on fostering gratitude

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Practicing Gratitude: Let's get happy!

Bethenny Frankel

Darn it anyway! Yes, we were skeptical when Bethenny landed a spot on the Real Housewives of New York, mostly because she wasn’t a housewife. At the time, she wasn’t even a wife. She was living in New York with her little pooch Cookie. But we grew to love Bethenny anyway for her no-holds-barred sarcasm and attitude and because her wealth didn’t come from lineage or marriage — she was just a workin’ girl busting her hump to make millions.

We were so excited when she met the laid-back Jason Hoppy, who not only appeared to accept Bethenny’s neurosis and biting wit, but enjoyed it. They went on to have adorable little Bryn and the only bone of contention between these two appeared to be Bethenny’s busy schedule. Perhaps, with Bethenny’s new talk show added to the list of her many other commitments, it proved to be too much. Whatever the reason, we were really rooting for these two and are saddened right along with them!

Image courtesy WENN.com

LuAnn de Lesseps

Also of Real Housewives of New York, “the Countess’s” marriage ended amid allegations that her husband, Count Alex de Lesseps, was counting how many women he could sleep with. The audience wasn’t as saddened by this split. While we love LuAnn for her ability to rock a chunky necklace and her level-headedness, her “I’m classier than you because I’m a Countess” bit was hard to take at times. Case in point — her book, Class with the Countess: How to Live with Elegance and Flair. Shortly thereafter, the Countess discredited herself as an authority on class by singing — and not well.

Image courtesy WENN.com

Camille Grammer

And here is where we ran out of any sympathy we may have had for the Real Housewives curse. In the first couple seasons of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Camille came across as the stereotypical spoiled Playboy model/trophy wife. We watched her appear stressed out while trying to manage her entourage and staff. That didn’t win her a lot of popularity votes. And mothers everywhere weren’t too impressed that she used a surrogate twice because she had irritable bowel syndrome — you know that condition every female gets once a month when Aunt Flo shows her charming face? Of course, we judged Camille harshly because she seemed to be little more than Kelsey Grammer’s overindulged arm candy. No one was terribly shocked when Kelsey packed his bags, then impregnated and married 31-year-old Kayte Walsh.

Image courtesy FayesVision/WENN.com

Taylor Armstrong

Yikes — ripped right from a made-for-Lifetime-TV script, Taylor Armstrong of Real Housewives of Beverly Hills filed for divorce from her husband Russell Armstrong. He committed suicide not long afterward. In the aftermath, we heard stories of domestic abuse and debts exceeding $1.5 million. Taylor’s tragedy made the Real Housewives curse impossible to ignore and sent the message that if you want your marriage to last more than five years, and have everyone come out alive, don’t go on Real Housewives of anything.

Image courtesy Nikki Nelson/WENN.com

Help those in need

Oftentimes, we get so caught up in the material aspects of the holiday season that we forget about giving back. Teach your children about the importance of helping those in need. On Christmas Eve, bring gifts to your local children's shelter, volunteer your family time at a neighborhood soup kitchen or find another way to help the less fortunate.

"We have made it a Christmas Eve tradition to invite someone in need into our home for a special meal and evening of holiday fun," says Marcella Morani, a mom of three in Houston. "You can always find a serviceman or other person who is away from his family during the holidays who will really appreciate the gesture."

Open one gift

Is the anticipation of waiting until Christmas morning too much for your kids to handle? Make it a Christmas Eve tradition to open just one gift before going to bed. This can be a fabulous time for your children to exchange gifts that they have bought for each other.

"It's been a tradition in our family since I was little," explains Laura Johnsen, mother of four boys. "And, I have carried it on with my own kids. Right before bedtime at Christmas Eve, we all sit around the Christmas tree and each open one present. The kids always beg for one more, but they know they have to wait until morning for the rest."

Go to church at midnight

Many people don't find the time to attend worship services on Christmas Day. So instead, go to church at midnight on Christmas Eve. Most churches offer a midnight service on Christmas Eve.

Prepare Christmas breakfast

Who has time to cook on Christmas morning? Make it a family tradition to prepare a special Christmas breakfast the night before. Kids can help by squeezing fresh orange juice, making a breakfast fruit salad or setting the table. To make things easier, you can prepare a breakfast casserole on Christmas Eve that you can just pop in the oven in the morning.

Predictions for the new year

Some countries have very unusual traditions on Christmas Eve. For example, people throw Loksa on their ceiling in Slovakia. If the Loksa sticks, the harvest will be bountiful in the next year. On the other hand, single women in the Czech Republic find out if they will marry in the coming year. On Christmas Eve, the woman stands with her back to the door and throws a shoe over her shoulder. If the shoe lands with the toe pointing toward the door, she'll get married in the upcoming year.

Read about the Christmas Eve tradition Feast of the Seven Fishes>>

Create a unique Christmas Eve tradition in your own family. Traditions help promote family bonding and provide kids with a stable base to grow from. Whether you read 'Twas the Night Before Christmas before going to sleep, watch a classic holiday movie together or throw something on your kitchen ceiling, the traditions you start now will create wonderful memories for generations and generations.

More about Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve crafts for kids
10 Classic Christmas movies kids love
Matching Christmas pajamas for the whole family

Eggnog is the winter holiday beverage of choice! Whether you buy your eggnog from the grocery or whip up your own special recipe, make sure to have an extra batch on hand this year!

Steamy eggnog lattes

This simple recipe is packed with the holiday flavors you crave in your coffee this time of year. Be your own barista and try this delightful hot drink.

Yields 1 drink

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup eggnog
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee or 1 shot hot espresso
• Whipped cream for garnish
• Ground nutmeg for garnish

Directions:

1. Pour the hot coffee or espresso into a 6-ounce mug.
2. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, steam the eggnog and milk, but be sure not to let the mixture come to a boil.
3. Remove the eggnog mixture from the heat, pour it over the coffee and top with whipped cream and dust with ground nutmeg.

Eggnog-spiced French toast

These golden slices of bread are like heaven in the morning! This is a wonderful dish to get everyone into the holiday spirit!

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 12 ounces eggnog
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 8 slices thick-style bread
• 4 tablespoons butter, approximately
• 4 ounces toasted pecans, chopped, for topping
• 8 ounces fresh raspberries, for topping
• Powdered sugar for garnish
• Maple syrup, for topping

Directions:

1. In a large, shallow bowl, beat the eggs and whisk in the eggnog, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg.
2. Dip the sliced bread into the mixture and coat each side so that the batter soaks through the bread. Set aside.
3. You may have to work in batches to cook the French toast. In an extra-large skillet or on a griddle over low-medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of the butter.
4. When the butter is melted, place as many slices of bread that will fit on the skillet or griddle. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden.
5. If you’re working in batches, add more butter to the skillet for each batch.
6. Serve on individual plates, top with the pecans, fresh raspberries and sprinkle on powdered sugar. Serve with maple syrup.

Baked apple-eggnog oatmeal

Your kitchen will fill with an amazing aroma with this delightful oatmeal dish baking. This recipe is prepared and baked in individual, 5-ounce ramekins, but you could use a medium-sized casserole dish instead.

Inspired by Paula Deen

Serves 6

Ingredients:

For the oatmeal

• 1 cup eggnog
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup quick-cooking oats
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced

For the topping

• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 3 tablespoons quick-cooking oats
• 2 tablespoons chilled butter, cut into pieces

Directions:

For the topping:

1. Combine all the ingredients, except for the butter, in a small bowl and mix well.
2. Reserve the butter to dot on the topping before baking.

For the oatmeal:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, add the eggnog, milk and butter. Simmer until the butter melts.
3. Pour the eggnog mixture into a medium-sized bowl. Add the brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and apple and mix well. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes.
4. Divide the mixture evenly among the ramekins.
5. Spoon the topping mixture evenly over the ramekins and dot with the chilled butter.
6. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden, and serve warm.

Get in the holiday spirit!

More eggnog-inspired recipes

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Baked eggnog doughnuts with eggnog-rum glaze
Eggnog roulade with rum buttercream

This holiday season, emotions are more fragile than ever. With tragedies on our minds and the holiday churning toward us, it’s a recipe for anxiety, depression and stress. Learn how to wind down and stay healthy this Christmas.

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Go to your happy place

Skip silly stuff, acquire awesome items

From the minute you announce to the world you are expecting, the list of "must haves" is a mile long. Five products made our lives a little easier when we had newborns and we have been recommending or buying them as gifts for expecting friends ever since.

For some of us, it has been a while since we were first-time moms, but surely a few favorite products stand out. Whatever you do, do not let anyone talk you into a baby wipe warmer. They are nice in concept, but totally impractical. You aren’t going to carry it with you wherever you go so it’s sort of pointless.

However, here are five must-have items you should have on your baby registry or consider taking to the next baby shower you're invited to:

Not a pro-swaddler? That's not a problem with aden + anais Swaddling Blankets. These amazing blankets are made from soft, breathable muslin fabric and have tons of uses: Light cover at night, emergency burp cloth, stroller or car seat shield, tummy time mat, arm rest during feedings and more. We love them because they are large , come in a variety of darling designs and are stretchy so swaddling is a cinch!

aden + anais also makes towels, wash cloths, sheets, bibs and they just launched a new skincare line worth checking out called Mum + Bub.

Carter’s long sleeve bodysuits and side-snap tees are perfect for after a bath or layering and they keep Baby cozy. Because they are white, they always look clean and fresh — at least until the next spit-up. Consider getting a larger size for a roomier fit. Carter’s is great for all baby, toddler and kids clothes and their sales are amazing.

The Kiddopotamus Snuzzler Complete Head and Body Support, or as we like to call it, "baby's bear skin rug” has an ingenious design that cradles babies in any over-sized carrier providing a cozy comfortable fit.

Pricey, yes, but oh so worth it, the BOB Revolution Jogging Stroller has super sturdy off-road tires that are perfect for sand or street. It’s nimble, rides smooth and has lots of spacious compartments for drinks, keys, phone, sunscreen and more. Plus, the see-through sun canopy is a nice added bonus for Baby's viewing pleasure.

A common complaint about the BOB is that there are only two seat settings; reclined or completely laying down. This presents a problem for some, especially if it's not naptime and you have a child that likes to sit up and look around. If you want to keep your tot upright and comfortable, we suggest rolling up a blanket to stick behind Baby's back for a little leverage.

Diapers.com should be every mom's new best friend. Diapers.com is an amazing website that offers free shipping on orders over $50 and charges no sales tax. Plus, orders take 24 to 48 hours or less to deliver! Quidsi, the company behind Diapers.com has now expanded to offer beauty products, household necessities, toys, books and pet care items all delivered right to the comfort of your home.

More on baby items

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10 Items you need on your baby registry
Beyond the baby shower: 20 Essential baby items

A great meal doesn't have to be difficult to put together. Black bean and corn green chili enchiladas is a great example! All it takes to enjoy a home-cooked, Mexican-inspired Meatless Monday meal is a few steps around the stovetop, a pop in the oven for a bit and that's it! Break out the tortilla chips and green salad, and you've got a meal everyone will rave over!

Black bean and corn green chili enchilada recipe

Yields 6

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 10 ounces corn kernels, canned or frozen
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 6 ounces green chilies
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 teaspoon coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 10 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 6 flour tortillas
• Sour cream, cubed avocado and chopped tomato for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place a baking sheet near your work area to help with prepping the enchiladas.
2. Add the beans and corn to a bowl, mix together and set aside.
3. In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the vegetable broth, onion, green chilies, garlic, black pepper and coriander. Simmer for about 10 minutes so some of the broth is absorbed. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
4. Once cooled slightly, add the lime juice to the mixture. Use an immersion blender to carefully blend until smooth.
5. Add the sour cream to the mixture and whisk until it's incorporated. Transfer to a large bowl.
6. Add some of the enchilada mixture to lightly cover the bottom of an 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
7. Place all your ingredients near each other, close to the baking dish and baking sheet.
8. Dip a tortilla into the enchilada sauce and allow the excess to drip off. Place the tortilla onto the baking sheet, and add a few tablespoons of the bean and corn mixture down the middle of the tortilla, then add about an ounce of cheese. Roll it up and place it in the baking dish, with the seam on the bottom. Repeat with each tortilla.
9. When finished, top the rolled tortillas with the extra sauce and a bit more cheese.
10. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly.

Roll with this tasty dish!

More Meatless Monday recipes

Creamy cauliflower gratin
Quinoa and cranberry salad with tomato vinaigrette
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Return it or wear it?

Present etiquette for couples

So he got you the ugliest sweater you’ve ever seen for Christmas. Do you pretend to like it or return it for something you might actually wear? It’s a tough call, but we have some tips on how to deal.

What did he get you?

How bad is it? Is it something you can politely fold up and put in a drawer, or something bigger and more expensive that he’ll expect to see you wearing on the regular? If it wasn’t just a small gift or stocking stuffer type of item, and something he really put a lot of thought into , you might want to consider returning it so you don’t have to wear it every time you’re with him.

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San Francisco

San Francisco is the ultimate destination for adventurous party-goers this New Year’s. Off-season rates can save you money on lodgings. Spend money on a big-ticket party or hit the streets to enjoy the free fireworks display. Visit the San Francisco Visitors Bureau for a huge list of things to do around New Year’s, including family-friendly entertainment.

More winter travel

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These moist cupcakes with banana and spice have just the right amount of richness. With a hint of chocolate from the filling and creamy frosting, the result is a delicious treat both children and adults are sure to love!

Chocolate-filled banana cupcake recipe

Recipe adapted from Melissa Lam from Recipe to Riches

Chocolate mousse filling recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 6 ounces milk chocolate, chopped

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, heat cream until almost boiling. Remove from heat. Stir in chocolate until melted. Cool to room temperature. Chill until cool.
2. In stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment, beat chocolate mixture until fluffy. Place in refrigerator.

Banana cupcake recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3/4 cup mashed ripe banana
• 1-1/4 cups cake flour
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat butter with sugar until fluffy, scraping down side of bowl as needed. Beat in egg and vanilla, then beat in mashed banana.
3. In separate bowl, whisk together flour, allspice, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Beat half of flour mixture into butter mixture. Beat in half of buttermilk; repeat.
4. Spoon evenly into prepared muffin tin.
5. Bake in center of oven until tester inserted in centre comes out clean, about 20 to 25 minutes.
6. Remove from muffin tin and cool on a wire rack.

White chocolate cream cheese frosting recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces white chocolate, chopped
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• 1-1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• Sprinkles

Directions:

1. Place white chocolate in microwave safe bowl. Microwave on high 20 seconds at a time, stirring each time, until melted and smooth. Cool to room temperature.
2. In stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat cream cheese until smooth. Beat in sugar beat until just combined. Beat in butter and vanilla just until combined; do not overbeat.
3. Using rubber spatula, stir in cooled white chocolate.
4. To assemble, cut off tops of cupcakes. Scoop a small hole out of center of cupcake. Divide chocolate mousse filling among cupcakes. Place cupcakes tops back on and spread with white chocolate cream cheese frosting. Garnish with sprinkles, if using.

More banana recipes

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Frozen banana bites
Low-glycemic banana nut bread

5 Stars: Perfect for those seeking rough justice

German immigrant Dr King Schultz rides around in a carriage topped with a giant fake tooth that bounces on a spring. But dentistry isn’t what’s paying the bills these days. The dentist has traded in his drill for a blunderbuss gun.

Working now as a bounty hunter, Dr Schultz is earning lots of cash handing over corpses. The next set of bad men on his wanted poster are the murderous Brittle brothers, who travel around working as plantation overseers who are in charge of "disciplining" slaves.

Dr Shultz obtains ownership of chain-gang slave Django , promising Django his freedom if he helps him find the Brittle boys. Turns out the two make a great team and spend the winter killing-for-cash together.

But Django’s real goal is to find his wife Broomhilda and he convinces Dr Schultz to help him find her. Their search leads to the notorious Candyland plantation, owned by the Caligula-inspired Calvin Candie .

Dr Schultz and Django pose as "slavers" who are interested in buying a "Mandingo fighter" or slave who’s been trained to fight another slave gladiator-style to the death.

Once inside Candyland, they find Broomhilda who’s been locked in the "hot box" for trying to run away. Even trickier to navigate than the mercurial Calvin Candie is his house slave Stephen , whose loyalty is to his master, no matter how cruel he can be.

Jamie Foxx and Kerry Washington are the heart and soul of this movie, lifting the violence out of gratuitous pomp. Leo DiCaprio and Samuel L. Jackson are fearless as they indulge in the horrific relationship as master and servant, embodying the darkest part of American history that is rarely spoken about.

The true genius of this film is in Tarantino’s unflinching look at the inhumane culture of brutality on which our country was built. It is interesting to contrast Django Unchained with Spielberg’s Lincoln, which views slavery through the eyes of politicians. Tarantino’s vision of slavery is visceral, ugly and shocking, and because of this, incredibly impactful. The huge emotional and cinematic payoff, however, is worth the dark journey.

Bottom line: While this movie certainly has lots of Tarantino’s quirky humor and witty characters, it is extremely violent — blood, whippings and castration. If you can take the violence, see this movie. Enjoy!

Photo credit: The Weinstein Co.

What you'll need:

• Mkeka: A woven center mat; the mat for foundations we stand on.
• Kinara: Swahili for "candle holder"; representative of Africa.
• Mishumaa saba: Three red on the left, three green on the right, one black to be placed in the kinara; symbolic of each principle.
• Mazao: Crops/food to be placed in a center bowl; the fruits of our good work.
• Muhindi: An ear of corn to represent each child and the element of community.
• Zawadi: Gifts; rewards for the children.
• Kikombe cha umoja: A central cup representing the family and communal unity.
• Ingredients for the Kwanzaa Karamu .

How to celebrate

At the heart of Kwanzaa lie seven principles of African heritage, known as nguzo saba, represented by each of the candles and dedicated to each of the seven days in the holiday. Though the atmosphere and tradition may be unique to each participating family, red, black and green typically represent the holiday. Black symbolizes humans, red symbolizes struggle and green symbolizes hope.

Traditional greetings in observance of Kwanzaa include "Habari gani?" , prompting a response that defines the day's principle. The act of lighting each candle signifies the central theme for each day to be carried out by the family. Each new day a candle is lit, the preceding candles are lit again to reaffirm the lessons we have learned.

The principles of each day:

• Dec. 26: Unity
• Dec. 27: Self-determination
• Dec. 28: Collective work and responsibility
• Dec. 29: Cooperative economics
• Dec. 30: Purpose
• Dec. 31: Creativity
• Jan. 1: Faith

Each of these principles can be observed in a number of ways but community is often best celebrated around a central family dinner table. The decorations do not have to be flashy or extravagant — they serve as basic reminders for each of the elements.

Perhaps the peak of Kwanzaa is the Kwanzaa Karamu that takes place on New Year's Eve. The feast serves as a vehicle for cooperation, and the whole family lends a hand in the cooking process. Gifts of creativity are exchanged on the last morning of Kwanzaa.

Add your own traditions

This article serves as a guide, but make Kwanzaa your own. Do not lose sight of the communal aspect, but also note that unique family traditions and interpretations are what helps keep this and other celebrations alive for coming generations. Fill your home with the sights and sounds particular to your heritage and cherish the moments the holiday offers.

And most importantly, Kwanzaa yenu iwe na heri! May your Kwanzaa be happy!

More on Kwanzaa

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Celebrating family, culture and community with Kwanzaa
10 Holiday traditions from across the world

Les Miserables begins in 1815, in Toulon, France, where we meet the bedraggled Jean Valjean on a chain gang, serving a 20-year sentence for stealing a loaf of bread.

Overseeing the prisoners is Javert , a severe man of the law who sees things in black and white. He releases Valjean, but reminds him that he is still on parole. With a criminal past however, Valjean is unable to get a job.

When Valjean steals from a humane bishop and gets caught, he is shocked when the bishop forgives him and tells police to let him go. This single act of mercy transforms Valjean into a man of grace and benevolence.

The beautiful, yet desperate Fantine is an unwed mother making anguished choices so that she may send money to Monsieur and Madame Thenardier , innkeepers who are taking care of her daughter, Young Cosette . Life in post-revolutionary France was harsh, and after losing her factory job, she is left with no choice but prostitution.

Valjean shuns parole and reinvents himself. When he learns that Fantine was let go from his very own factory, he takes pity on the ailing waif. He promises to retrieve little Cosette and take care of her as if she were his own.

Les Miserables is a treasure trove of visual and audio delights. Instead of recording the songs in a studio before filming and having the actors lip-sync to them, the actors wore earpieces to hear the music and then sang live on film.

Anne Hathaway sings “I Dreamed a Dream” in a single take, providing the most heart-wrenching, impassioned, and haunting moments in the film. We all knew she could sing, but this performance is truly show-stopping. No mother will be able to watch this without bursting into tears.

Hugh Jackman plays a wider range of emotion, but it’s in his most vulnerable moments where he grabs us by the heart and squeezes until we think it will break. His love for Cosette is so huge, so engulfing, it changes his life, and the lives of the others around him.

As the older Cosette, Amanda Seyfried’s giant cat eyes display her every emotion, supporting her dainty, angelic singing.

Helena Bonham Carter and Sacha Baron-Cohen provide amusing comic relief as the wickedly coy shysters who not only prey on pretty Cosette, but on all of Paris.

Plucked from the stage version, Samantha Barks plays their daughter Eponine, who gracefully, sorrowfully croons “On My Own.” No doubt we’ll be seeing more of her in the future.

Bottom line: This powerful melodrama couldn’t be more exquisitely made, from the acting to the singing, to the lush visual palate. Warning: Bring a box of tissues and skip the popcorn because you’ll likely be choked up!

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

Carry-on essentials

What to pack in your Carry-on

Whether you'll be in the air for two hours or 12, what you take with you on the plane can ensure a stress-free, comfortable flight. From ear plugs to eye masks to e-readers, we share the most essential carry-on items to pack for your next trip.

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In the mood for a mani

Nail polish isn’t just a fun way to switch up your look or enhance an outfit. The shade you reach for can also say a lot about your mood and your personality. So take a look at your latest mani. The color could be revealing a lot more than you think.

For more insight, we got in touch with celebrity manicurist Gina Edwards for Kiss Products, Inc. and CND education manager Roxanne Valinoti for their thoughts on nail polish and mood.

Nail polish: The ultimate accessory

First things first — nail polish has become more than a basic beauty item, regardless of mood or personality. “Nail color influences a person's mood, but today nail color has become such an accessory in fashion, people are selecting colors regardless of mood and more towards the direction of their outfit,” says Edwards. Valinoti agrees. “Nails are the ultimate accessory. Color, shape and length can express your personality and maybe your alter ego!”

Your mani and your mood

So just what does your current nail color say about you? “A person with nail art over their manicure displays a fun personality and is a risk taker,” says Edwards. Taking it one step further, Valinoti notes that nail art tell the story of a free spirit who isn't afraid to experiment and may even embrace change. On the flipside, classic and neutral colors tell a more subdued story. “Classic colors, such as a traditional French manicure or neutral, soft pigments display a conservative side,” explains Edwards. Valinoti believes the same to be true. “A French manicure or sheer nude colors can communicate a more traditional, classic, professional personality.”

Red nails never go out of style, but what do they mean? “Red communicates glamour and sex appeal,” says Valinoti. Similarly, pink is another confident hue. It might not scream sex appeal, but it does show a take-charge attitude, notes Edwards. “Kiss Everlasting Gel Polish in ‘Punch’ is a beautiful bright pink and I find women who wear similar colors are more adventurous, outgoing and approachable,” she explains.

If you’ve opted for a polish in a darker hue, there are a few personalityattributes you could be showing off. “Dark nails are chic, trendy and communicate an edgy personality that appreciates a good challenge,” says Valinoti.

Edwards shares a few mood-based colors and we’ve picked out some polishes to match.

More about nails

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Have a friend who seems totally put together and cheerful all the time? That woman can be you. Find out what six real moms do to stay happy, healthy and satisfied.

How real women live happy, fulfilling lives

We all have different ways of getting happy. When life gets busy and stressful, don’t lose sight of the light at the end of the tunnel. Learn how six happy women keep in touch with the brighter side of life.

Get moving

Approach exercise as a way to lift your spirits instead of a way to lose weight. When you think of it as a mood booster and not a chore, you may be more likely to stick to a routine. Running is often suggested by women who love the way it gives a rush of endorphins and helps them sleep at night. Natalie, a copywriter, swears by the way running makes her feel happy. “Particularly the no-pressure runs where I'm just enjoying my tunes, a loose mileage goal, permission to walk as often as I want and daydream about being a super spy who is training to defeat robots,” she says.

Find the best mind-body workouts for the New Year>>

Enjoy some guilt-free TV

At the end of a long day, don’t be afraid to indulge in some seriously silly television. You’ve earned the distraction. Whether you love documentaries or reality TV, don’t judge yourself. Curl up on the couch and zone out. Tracy, a graphic designer, loves her romantic comedies. “Indulge in a guilty pleasure,” she says. “For me, it's schmoopy rom-coms, while drinking a beer and eating an entire bowl of popcorn.”

Focus on yourself

As a mother, you spend a lot of time making others happy. You can’t be happy if you don’t spend some of that time and energy on yourself. Caroline, a social media analyst, suggests focusing on things that make you — and only you — happy. “Not making someone else happy, not your kids, no one else,” she says. “I'm a lot happier knowing now what I like to do in my free time and what makes me a whole individual. Now that I have that down, I am happier to give to those around me.”

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Enter a fantasy world

It’s easier than you think to escape to a fantasy world. Just pick up a book. The subjects may have changed since you were 7, but the concept remains the same. Books are a great way to get away. Tara, a blogger, reads regularly to stay happy. “I read for at least an hour before bed every night, and listen to audio books when I run or am in the car alone or am shopping alone,” she says. “Escaping into a fictional world helps me to unwind and relax and forget my troubles for a bit.”

Connect with family

Happiness may be closer than you think. Leaning on family, even the memory of loved ones who have passed, can be a source of strength and happiness. Chrissy, a blogger, holds the memory of her grandmother close. “I'm not sure why this started, but sometime around high school I started to think about decisions in the sense of ‘what would my grandma think about this.’ Perhaps she was the little angel on my shoulder,” Chrissy says. “Or perhaps I just really respected her and the person that she was and hoped I could be like her one day. But that thought process has stayed a constant in my life.”

Listen to your jams

Rachel, who works in the publishing industry in New York City, jams out to her favorite music to feel happy. “Hip hop and R&B from the early ’90s always lightens my mood,” she says. “Probably because it presents a reality that is fairly different from mine, yet light-hearted.” If you don’t listen to music often, try to make it a habit while you’re driving or while you’re working. Use streaming web radio to tune in to music that uplifts you, whether it’s inspirational ballads or arena rock.

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Is it just us, or does every mom seem to be obsessed with her camera lately? Moms are watching their children grow through the backside of a screen rather than right before their eyes.

Are you using your camera too much?

Your goal is to capture every precious moment on film, but are you really missing the moments that are most important?

My name is Mom... and I'm a camera addict

No offense to the moms who are die-hards for their DSLRs — we admire you for all of those insanely gorgeous pictures of your children that you take. But, as more and more moms are jumping behind the lens of their camera , we can't help but wonder if we're missing the moments of our children's lives because we are so focused on trying to capture the moment.

Earlier this year, Allison Tate wrote an article for the Huffington Post, The Mom Stays in the Picture, which hit home with all moms. She shared about a moment when her son pulled her into a picture booth with him at a family birthday party and how it made her realize how few pictures she is in with her kids. Tate's article spurred a mom-movement and it didn't take long before photos of moms with their kids started popping up on Facebook, Instagram and blogs. Moms took it to heart — the importance of getting on the other side of the camera lens — and it became such a phenomenon that Huffington Post started a gallery of the photos moms were taking, which, at the time of press, is filled with over 2,200 images.

Lasting memories: No camera required

Here's our next challenge to you, moms — stop watching your children through the lens of your camera or smartphone. Start living in the moments of their childhood and experiencing life with them, rather than alongside them. We know you want to record every moment of that adorable preschool holiday play and catch their game-winning goal on film , but give it a try and see how you feel.

There's no denying that putting the camera down is going to be hard — your shooting finger is probably itching already — and while it may take some getting used to, the results are going to be worth it. Think of it this way: Instead of photographing your kids making gingerbread houses, you're right in there with them, putting frosting on the roof and unwrapping candies. Or, rather than catching your daughter's ballet recital through the screen of your phone, as you attempt to record it, enjoy watching it in real life — when she catches your eye in the audience during her final bow, she'll love seeing your proud, smiling face, instead of your camera.

Instead of breaking up with your camera completely, try redefining how you use it. Give yourself a picture a day to capture — Instagram is full of "photo a day" projects that give you a daily prompt to take a picture of, ranging from suggestions like yellow or love or shoes, for you to interpret in any way you'd like. Or, charge yourself with taking a photo a day at a specific time each day, such as noon. But, that's all you get to take — one picture — so, you'd better make it count!

The easiest way to cut down on your camera time is to simply leave it at home. Challenge yourself to tuck it away for an entire week or an entire month, only pulling it out to capture necessary events, like your daughter losing her first tooth or your brother's wedding. No justifications allowed for keeping your camera out to grab more than just the requisite shot.

Those of you with special events coming up are probably starting to twitch as you read this. Not use your camera for your daughter's second birthday? Are you kidding? Trust us, we're very serious and the only solution to keeping your camera away during special events is to turn paparazzi duty over to a professional or a friend. There's no doubt it will be hard, but the smile on her face when you are blowing out the candles with her, instead of from across the room with your camera, trying to get the perfect shot, will be worth it!

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It's time to change things up! This simple sandwich is full of flavor and perfect for breakfast... or lunch... or even dinner! Sandwiched between two pieces of buttery crispy bread you will find sharp cheddar cheese, a runny egg, crispy bacon and spinach! This is the type of sandwich you won't want to share. Don't worry, we won't judge you. We completely understand. Look at all the deliciousness!

Breakfast grilled cheese sandwich recipe

Yields 1 sandwich

Ingredients:

• 1 jumbo egg
• 2 slices sandwich bread
• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 3 slices crispy bacon
• 1/3 cup fresh baby spinach

Directions:

1. In a lightly oiled frying pan, add one egg, being careful not to crack the yolk. Lightly season with salt and pepper and fry over medium heat. Flip egg and cook on opposite side. Undercook your egg just a little because it will cook a little longer when you cook the sandwich.
2. Carefully take egg out of the pan and set it on a small plate while you assemble sandwich.
3. Butter one side of each slice of bread, using 1 tablespoon butter per slice.
4. Add buttered side of bread to pan and top it with one slice cheese, bacon, fried egg, spinach, remaining cheese slice and top with other slice of bread.
5. Cook over medium-low heat until the bottom is crispy brown. Flip and continue to cook on the other side until brown and toasted.

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The pervasive nature of popular culture combined with the budget cutbacks in fine art programs in schools means that many kids grow up without any exposure to classical music.

Help children appreciate fine arts

Parents can make up for the void by exposing kids to classical music at home.

Classical music is more than just a genre or an antiquated craft. It can be a gateway to a rich cultural experience and a tool to promote an appreciation for fine arts. Parents play a crucial role in introducing their kids to classical music and encouraging them to celebrate an art that stands the test of time.

A disappearing art

Classical music provides a historical perspective on the arts, challenges the listener and expresses myriad of emotions and storylines. With all of these attributes, why isn’t classical music more mainstream? "There's a stigma attached to it," says Jana Cole, musician, composer and mother of two. "It’s too old. Video games seduce and monopolize kids’ interest and time. They condition kids to crave constant, intense, mindless stimulation, creating a need that classical music cannot meet." With educational programs dwindling, classical radio virtually non-existent and access to live performances often limited, the onus falls to parents to share this disappearing art with their kids.

Ask yourself: Are your kids addicted to video games?>>

The farm concept

It is believed that classical music can have a positive impact on cognitive ability, mood and overall health. If those aren’t reasons enough to expose your child to classical music, consider the life lessons that can be taught through the process of learning to play music. "Teaching kids to play classical music teaches them discipline and the ‘farm’ concept — that you must invest time and effort to reap a reward," says Cole. "This contrasts with the typical instant gratification environment most children live in, in this country."

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You are uniquely qualified

Regardless of the condition of the fine arts culture in your area or school, you are uniquely qualified to shape your child’s exposure to classical music. Just as parents can pass along a love of reading or a passion for a particular sport, they can also spark an appreciation for the emotion of Debussy or the vibrancy of Bach. "I think that a parent should take the time to expose a daughter or son to the fine arts because in many ways, it gives them what I call a historical frame of reference for the world that they live in, what others used to call a well-rounded education," says Marshall Barnes, a respected scientist and multi-instrumentalist with an extensive background in music production and composition.

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Resources

Fortunately, even parents with zero musical background can effectively expose their children to classical music using some of the many resources readily available. Barnes provides the following tips for rookie parents:

• Start playing classical music for your kids as early as possible — the younger the better.
• Take notice when you visit restaurants or shops that play classical music and ask your child what he thinks of it. See if he can identify the instruments.
• Peter and the Wolf by Prokofiev is a way to learn to identify instruments.
• Watch classical music performances with your kids on PBS. It helps to research the performance a bit so that you can answer questions and share information as you watch.
• Focus on the more modern composers like Erik Satie, Claude Debussy, Aaron Copland and George Gershwin.

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Despite assertions that organic food is best for your kiddos, you may want to uncover the American Academy of Pediatrics' findings before you dish out the extra cash.

New Study by American Academy of Pediatrics

From the benefits of avoiding pesticides to the evident health benefits of varieties of cuisine, are you wasting money on organic food for kids?

Organic foods not more nutritious

In a report released by the American Academy of Pediatrics , the children-focused organization asserts their stance that organic food doesn't contain any more nutritional benefits to kids than conventionally grown food. Their research was sparked by another prior study by the American College of Physicians which came to the same conclusion. Although some parents site allergies as the reason they skip on non-organically grown fruits and vegetables, the research also revealed no significant differences between organic food versus conventional produce when it comes to the effects on allergies like eczema or wheezing as well.

But, the battle between organic versus conventionally grown foods doesn't stop at fruits and vegetables alone; for parents who choose to dish up organic nourishment to their brood, it's important to note that the AAP study found no individual health benefit from serving organic milk, so long as it's pasteurized. But, that doesn't mean that the benefits of organic food for kids are nonexistent.

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Benefits of organic foods

Just because the nutritional value between organic foods and conventionally grown fare aren't significant, it doesn't dismiss the benefits of buying organic food for kids. The American College of Physicians report acknowledged that the organic grub does in fact boast lower levels of pesticide residues and exposure to certain bacteria, however, the difference in risk based on maximum allowed limits were small. You may also want to carve out room on your table for organically raised meat, as it has the potential to reduce antibiotic resistance in your family. But, studies are still also digging to determine the impact of hormone exposure of children through meat and milk.

Find out how eating organic improves your child's health >>

Nutritional factors in kids' diets

Since all-natural organic foods tend to be a little steeper in price, you may find that buying organic foods eats up more of your budget, resulting in less fruits and veggies in your fridge. However, the most important aspect of your youngster's diet is that kids nosh on a wide variety of food, whether their diet is filled with organic foods or based solely on conventionally grown fare. Be sure that your family is powering up with a well-balanced diet, even if it means working in non-organic foods as well, instead of letting your budget limit how much of the higher-priced provisions your family eats.

Although the study by the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed that the nutritional benefits of organic foods may be comparable to their conventionally-grown counterparts, many parents maintain that the shrunken exposure to pesticides and antibiotics is enough reason to confirm that they aren't wasting money on organic food for kids. Furthermore, when the AAP facts are paired up with the environmental benefits of going organic, you may find yourself compelled to still reach for the green goodies when feeding your youngsters, regardless of what studies have said.

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