Checklist for Perfect Grilling

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Photo Courtesy: Marnely Rodriguez

Socializing with family and friends around the BBQ is an all-American pastime, and it will soon be time to get the grills out once again. If you’re lacking in the cooking department, have a look for the Best george foreman grill, as one of these babies could be a life saver with 4th of July around the corner. This 4th of July you should know what you’re doing around the grill. I’ll be in Miami soaking up the sun — but if you’re “manning” the grill — here’s some tips from grilling expert JoAnn Witherell of Allen Brothers Steaks.

Checklist for Perfect Grilling

by Joann Witherell

There’s No “Right” Grilling Equipment

Some love gas grills for their convenience, while others swear by the unique flavor charcoal provides. But you can grill a great steak on both types of grills – it all comes down to personal preference. Either way sear the meat on high with the lid off, then turning down the temperature and closing the lid to finish cooking. Cooking techniques like this are useful and you can learn different techniques by reading cooking books or watching videos on Youtube. Depending on what you are cooking on, will depend on what cooking techniques to use, you can check out this Grill Types Guide to see different grill types. Once you have chosen the right grill type for you, you can then read about cooking on your grill, and cook the perfect meal for you and your loved ones.

Start with a Clean Slate

Start your grill on high (or over very hot coals if you’re using charcoal) to burn off any residue from previous grilling sessions – you don’t want charred bits of last week’s burgers contaminating your dinner. This simple rule keeps your food clean and also prolongs the life of your grill. Read more

Checklist for Getting Over a Setback

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I’m an eternal optimist and almost always have a smile on my face. Ask anyone who knows me. But even I’ve had “one of those days” every once and a while. You know what I’m talking about – those days when you just don’t feel like yourself. Or maybe you’ve had a hard time and you’re in a rut. Getting back to normal can seem impossible. That’s why psychologist Dr. Michael Nuccitelli created this checklist to help get us over any setback.

Checklist for Getting Over a Setback

by Michael Nuccitelli, Psy.D

The trick is to practice as many of the tips as you can, check off each one you finish and I guarantee you will be feeling better in no time at all. Please “Do Not Pass Go” until you have completed step one. Without insight into step one, the other nine will have no bearing on your ascent to vim and vigor. It’s what the doctor recommends. Read more

Tips for Hosting a Wine and Cheese Tasting

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Wine is one of my favorite beverages along with tea and water. Pinot Grigio is hands down my “go to” wine although wine guru Gary Vaynerchuk told me to get over myself and try new varietals. I’m trying Gary!

I’ve attended a few wine tasting parties thrown by my friend Danielle one of which was a brief intro to shiraz, it was a great night with some great wine. It’s always been a blast although I’m not sure we really learned much about wine even though we did fill out rating cards. I’d like to host my own this time so I turned to wine expert Wendy Crispell, who has designed and hosted many corporate and private events for NY celebrities, top business leaders and industry clients.

Hosting a Wine & Cheese Tasting

by Wendy Crispell

As a wine and cheese professional I believe wine is something that should be accessible to everyone. Many people are intimidated by the vast selection, unknown varietals, labeling jargon and differences in price vs. quality. I’ve noticed that most will stick with an old standby rather than taking the chance on trying something new or different. Hosting your own tasting is a great way to try new wines, explore unknown regions and just have great fun with friends! Read more

Ways to be Practical and Glamorous

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I love to feel glamorous just like the next girl…but if you haven’t already noticed — I’m also pretty practical. But there’s room for both in your life.

Practical: Everyday I wear my sneakers to work as I commute on the NYC subway because walking in heels hurts too much.

Glamorous: Once I get to work I slip on a pair of my favorite heels that are neatly tucked away on the shoe rack under my desk.  (Yes, I have a shoe rack under my desk.)

Here is a list of small, daily doses of beauty and style to slip into your daily life that are easy to implement, innovative and budget-neutral from Constance Dunn, author of ‘Practical Glamour.”

Glamour-A-Day Tips

by Constance Dunn

The overall idea is that by engaging in such little moments of luxury, you will increase the positive tip of personal glamour in your life, and look and feel better for it.

Let this list inspire you to create your very own list of practical glamours, and when you do, don’t even think of limiting yourself on those things that will make your world a more vivid and personally lovely place.

Engage an Exciting New Edible

When at the grocery store wander down an aisle you usually don’t frequent, and look for something totally different than the usuals that fill your cart. The exotic, ethnic or imported food aisles are filled with unknown delights. Chicherones, kumquats or smoked kippers, anyone? Read more

Essentials for Throwing an Outdoor Soiree

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It’s not even summer yet and already people are ditching their desks and heading for the beach and backyard barbecues. Massive summer parties are happening across the country with many people going all out and getting a tent rental sacramento to fit all of their guests in! After all, summer is a perfect time for a party so why not go all out? Sure you’ll need great food and fabulous music but what else makes an outdoor soiree a success? I asked entertainment expert Mindy Kobrin from Meals on Heels by Mindy for her outdoor-party checklist.

Giant Umbrella

A giant umbrella shields party guests from the blazing afternoon sun and some hanging Buitenlantaarn (outdoor lantern) lights will illuminate the table come nightfall.

Citronella Candles

Mix citronella candles with other colorful tea lights to keep away pests and offer diners light cotton shawls to ward off a chill in the evening.

Fragrant DIY Misters

Give guests a gift that keeps giving by using small spritzer bottles as natural hydraters. Simply add fresh mint and lavender sprigs to each spritzer bottle before filling with water. Affix cute labels and serve on a large platter. Read more