Beyond Cinnamon: 5 Delicious Things to Add to Your Hot Apple Cider

This winter hot and delicious drinks will abound, and hot apple cider is one of our favorites! If you feel the same way, then check out "Beyond Cinnamon: 5 Delicious Things to Add to Your Hot Apple Cider" for some new tastes!

It's that time of year when a hot cup of spiced apple cider is just what we need to warm our hands and bellies, a true comfort against the colder and darker days. Getting bored with just cinnamon in your cider? Try these delicious additions instead!

Hot apple cider is an excellent choice for those times when we want a warm beverage but need to forego the stimulation of coffee, tea or chocolate. While it's traditional to float a cinnamon stick or maybe the occasional clove in the cider to add even more toastiness to the experience, we can also move beyond the tried-and-true into exciting new combinations.

• 5-Spice. My local spice shop makes a whole spice 5-spice blend which is perfect for hot cider. What's nice about the whole spices is that you can adjust the mix (adding more or less of certain spices as you see fit) and also take them out once the mixture has reached the level of spice you want.
• Chili. Float a dried chili de arbol or other spicy chili in your hot cider to add another layer of warmth. A pinch of cayenne or other powdered chili (but not chili powder!) will also do.
• Citrus. To complement the acidity of the apples, add a slice of lemon or a lemon peel. Orange is nice, too. This can also be delicious if used with the chili, above.
• Booze. A little brandy or rum is a nice addition for those moments when youreally need a warming boost.
• Maple Syrup. If you want a sweeter beverage, try a splash of maple syrup.

Do you have a favorite addition to warm apple cider?

(Image credits: Dana Velden)

Original Article Here: http://www.thekitchn.com/beyond-cinnamon-5-delicious-things-to-add-to-your-hot-apple-cider-197324

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Americans Stressed Out by Home Organization

Does home organization stress you out? If so, no worries, you are far, far from alone. This recent Huffington Post survey came up with some numbers you very well may want to see, so check them out below!

A recent Huffington Post survey suggests Americans are stressed out over their homes. 84% claimed that they worry their homes aren't clean or organized enough, with 55% calling it a source of recent stress. A third of the total group polled felt very or extremely anxious about the state of their spaces, with 81% of all men and 87% of all women experiencing some worry over home upkeep.

In other news, 3D printing goes anti-gravity, and rents worldwide are on the rise.See the headlines after the jump.

• Home Organization Is Major Source Of Stress For Americans, Survey Finds | Huffington Post
• This Anti-Gravity 3-D Printer Can Make Objects Anywhere—Even Space | Co.Exist
• New Report Shows Higher Rents World-Wide | The Wall Street Journal

(Image: Shutterstock)

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/11ZZd5s

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Cleaning Your Electronics

Did you know that dust can hurt or damage all of your electronics?  The blog below has some great tips on how to keep your electronics dust free and running smoothly.  You can learn more about technology tricks by visiting apartment therapy.

Desktop Computer: Many towers have fans on the back and vents on the sides. At least once per year, perhaps more in dust ridden regions, use compressed air, then wipe down with an anti-static microfiber cloth. Start with the fan, then move to the vents to release any dust build up. You may be surprised what resides inside your computer's internal regions.

TVs: Wiping down the screen is pretty standard, but like computers, many large TVs also have a fan in the back helping to prevent the television from overheating. A little compressed air will help here too. 

Keyboards: Keyboards won't overheat, but low profile keyboards will get "soft keys" (sticky) if there's too much built up gunk under a key. Unplug the keyboard and blow on it gently every once in a while, using that handy can of compressed air for bigger jobs, and a dollop of hand disinfectant on a paper towel to remove grime on top. 


Mouse with Rolling Balls on Top or Bottom: My old Mac had a mouse with a small rolling ball on the top. It was great for web browsing, but on a nearly monthly basis the ball would get stuck and would roll sporadically. Even small amounts of dust will cause a mouse with delicate parts to operate poorly. A little compressed air on a regular basis will go a long way, with an alcohol based cleaner to wipe the top and bottom from smoother scrolling.

Add an Air Purifier: protect your home electronics further by installing an air filtration system nearby to keep dust, pet fur, and other debris out of digital devices and appliances in the first place. 

Check out our How to Shop for an Air Purifier shopping guide, alongside Consumer Reports, Good Housekeeping, and Consumer Search for recommendations.

(Photo Credits: Edward Goodwin via Flickr's Creative Commons, Tech Nibble and Apple)

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How To Make Perfect Bacon in the Oven

We're betting there's a pretty high chance that you love bacon, since a lot of people do! But if you're tired of greasy stovetops or are interested in trying something new then how about baking bacon? Check out "How To Make Perfect Bacon in the Oven" below!

How To Make Perfect Bacon in the Oven

What You Need

Ingredients
1 to 2 pounds bacon

Equipment
Aluminum foil
1 to 2 baking sheets
Tongs
Paper towels
Platter

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F: Turn on the oven and preheat to 400°F. Place a rack in the lower third of the oven. If you're cooking multiple sheets of bacon, position a second rack in the top third of the oven.
2. Arrange the bacon on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil (this makes clean-up easier). Lay the bacon on the baking sheet in a single layer. The bacon can be close together, but don't let it overlap or the bacon will stick during cooking. If necessary, use a second baking sheet.
3. Bake the bacon: Place the baking sheet of bacon in the oven and bake until the bacon is deep golden-brown and crispy, 15 to 20 minutes. Exact baking time will depend on the thickness of the bacon and how crispy you like it. Begin checking around 12 minutes to monitor how quickly the bacon is cooking. The bacon fat will sputter and bubble as the bacon cooks, but shouldn't splatter the way it does on the stove top. Pour off the bacon grease as needed so the bacon isn't totally submerged in grease.
4. Cool the bacon: Remove the bacon from the oven and use tongs to transfer it to a paper-lined platter to drain and finish crisping. Serve immediately. You can also refrigerate leftover bacon for a week or freeze it for up to three months; warm the bacon in the microwave before serving.
5. Clean up: If you want to save the bacon grease, let it cool slightly, then pour it into a container and refrigerate. If you don't want to save the grease, let it solidify on the baking sheet, then crumple the foil around it and discard.

Recipe Notes

• Even Crispier Bacon: For even crispier bacon, set a metal cooling rack over the foil-lined baking sheet and lay the raw bacon over the cooling rack. Elevating the bacon allows it to cook from all sides and become extra-crispy.

Want more smart tutorials for getting things done around the home?
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Submit your own tutorials or ideas here!

This post and recipe have been updated. Originally published 02/04/10.

(Images: Emma Christensen)

Original Article Here: http://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-perfect-bacon-in-the-oven-107970

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DIY Games for the Outdoors

Want to make the most of the remaining days of summer? Why not find some great games to play outside? They're easy to make and fun for everyone! Check them out below and catch the rest of the tips for outdoor games at BuzzFeed.



1. Bananagrams is great, but GIANT BANANAGRAMS is best.



Just cut out the letters together and prepare for some major scrambling.
Source: constantlylovestruck.blogspot.com

2. Take Twister outside.



Here’s how to do it yourselves.
Source: youplusmeforalways.blogspot.com

3. And bring Scrabble to the pool.



The sponges will float! WITCHCRAFT/physics.
Source: pinterest.com

4. Turn a two-liter bottle into a DIY sprinkler.



Get the directions here.
Source: makingmemorieswithyourkids.blogspot.com
5. Make art with things you guys find in nature.



Like these rocks.

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15 Back to School Recipes & Tips for Better Tasting Dorm Food

As you may know, it's back to school season, and that means that ramen packages will be flying off the shelves in no time. This article checks out some great simple recipes in the spirit of back to school, but we think you'll like them too! Check out "15 Back to School Recipes & Tips for Better Tasting Dorm Food"

TOP ROW

• 1 Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake - Yammie's Noshery - Yeah, cake in mugs are kind of ridiculous, but when you're craving something sweet this peanut butter chocolate one should do the trick. 
• 2 Scrambled Eggs in the Microwave - They won't hold a candle to the ones on the stovetop, but might be better then the cold eggs sitting in the cafeteria
• 3 Overnight Oats - This is so easy to do, plus great for when you're on the go in the morning. 
• 5 Steam Broccoli in the Microwave - Sneak some veggies from the cafeteria and make something a little healthy as a snack or to add to microwave pasta. 

SECOND ROW

• 1 Make Instant Ramen Taste Better - Radical Possibility - If instant ramen is inevitable in college, you might as well switch it up every once and awhile. 
• 2 Grilled PB&J - Everyday Occasions - The easiest trick of them all! Grilling your PB&J is life changing. If you don't have a panini press at school, I've heard of people "grilling" it with their clothing iron. That's right. 
• 3 One Bowl Microwave Macaroni and Cheese - Minimal effort involved. 
• 4 Three-Ingredient Cereal Bars - Undressed Skeleton - Take your favorite cereal from the dining hall and use it to make these easy breakfast bars. 
• 5 "Roast" Garlic in the Microwave - Mhmm das right, you can even "roast" garlic if you want to live it up. 

BOTTOM ROW

• 1 Brew a single cup of coffee - Instructables - Because sometimes you just want one cup of coffee and it's like 2am and everything else, including coffee shops, are closed. 
• 2 Make Foamed Milk in a Microwave for Coffee - Because if you're going to go through all the trouble of making that single cup of coffee at 2am, you might as well make some milk foam for it too. 
• 3 Ramen Noodle Trail Mix - May Squared - This recipe techincally requires a stove, but you could just throw all the ingredients together into a bowl and call it a day. 
• 4 Make Polenta in the Microwave - Get fancy with your study group. 
• 5 Toast Nuts in the Microwave - Necessary snack item made better with a microwave. 

Related → College Eating: 5 Ways To Spice Up Cafeteria Food

Related → Our Readers' Best Tips For Cooking Real Meals in a Hotel Room

(Images: As Linked)

Original Article Here: http://www.thekitchn.com/back-to-school-recipes-tips-for-better-tasting-dorm-food-193941

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Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup

This recipe takes a lot longer than the ones we've posted here previously, but we promise that it's worth it! Just take a look at that delicious bowl of soup below and tell us that's not worth waiting for! Check out "Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup"!

Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup

Serves 6

For the soup:
Neutral cooking oil, such as canola or safflower
1 medium onion, chopped
1 large jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
3 garlic cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Mexican-style chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon sugar
2 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 cups chicken stock, plus more for thinning if needed
1 (15-ounce) can yellow corn, drained
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained
2-3 pounds chicken thighs, skins removed (See Recipe Notes)
Heavy cream, to taste (optional)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cayenne pepper, optional

For serving:
Grated cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Tortilla chips
Cilantro

Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and jalapeño and cook until softened, 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and sugar and stir until fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute.  Add the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and stock. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then transfer to the bowl of a slow cooker. 

Add the corn, beans, and chicken thighs to the slow cooker. Cover and set on low for 6 to 7 hours (or high for 4 hours). Shred the cooked chicken using two forks (if using bone-in thighs, remove the chicken to shred; discard bones and return meat to the soup). Stir in a splash of heavy cream if desired. Season the soup with additional salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, to taste. 

Serve with cheddar cheese, sour cream, tortilla chips, and cilantro for garnish.

Recipe Notes

• You can use bone-in or boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I used bone-in for a rich, complex soup, but boneless are easy because you don't have to pull them out.
• This recipe can easily be doubled and frozen for another time. Transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe plastic bag labeled with recipe name and date. Press out excess air before sealing. Lay bags flat in a single layer in the freezer. (Once frozen, the bags can be stacked neatly.) To thaw, transfer to refrigerator overnight or set bag in a stockpot of warm water. Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat; season to taste. 

(Images: Nealey Dozier)

Original Article Here: http://www.thekitchn.com/slow-cooker-recipe-chicken-enchilada-soup-recipes-from-the-kitchn-193675

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Dig This Trend: 7 Smartest Homework Spots

It's back to school season! After you've got your binders and backpacks, it's time to start thinking about the dreaded h-word: homework! Make sure your little ones have a good space to do their homework in, check out "Dig This Trend: 7 Smartest Homework Spots" for some tips!

Sharpen those No. 2 pencils and grab a three-ring binder — back-to-school season has arrived! To help prep your home for the school year, we’ve gathered 7 top study solutions from Zillow Digs.

Closet studier

Sliding shutter doors keep a messy desk out of sight with this innovative closet solution by Zillow Digs design firm CaliforniaClosets.

Productive pink

Bulletin boards clear off desk space while keeping track of permission slips and prom photos. Zillow Digs design firm Niche Interiors uses hot pink walls to ensure study sessions are lively and productive.

Man cave

Zillow Digs designer Sara Eizen creates a cool, boys-only sanctuary with a hidden chalkboard for keeping track of upcoming assignments.

Retro chic

An vintage architect’s easel provides a quaint homework space and complements Zillow Digs designer Thea Segal‘s retro motif.

Art deco glam

With a mirrored table, this petite homework space by Zillow Digs designer Annie Nesbit creates the illusion of space in a cozy corner. A table lamp offers warm lighting for late-night study sessions.

Ducks in a row

Need a homework area that doesn’t take over the room? This elongated countertop by Zillow Digs designer David Scott comfortably seats four at-home students with room for books!

World of possibilites

This kids’ bedroom from Zillow Digs contributor The Corcoran Group is a cartography teacher’s dream come true. A full-size world map encourages little minds to keep exploring, while built-in shelves offer hours of nose-in-book time.

Original Article Here: http://www.zillowblog.com/2013-08-14/dig-this-trend-7-smartest-homework-spots/

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Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs with Apricot-Miso Glaze

There's a million and one ways to cook chicken, but this week get ready to make it a million and two ways! This new recipe is highlighted with some interesting flavors to add, so check out "Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs with Apricot-Miso Glaze" below!

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Apricot-Miso Glaze

Serves 4 to 6

For the chicken:
8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1 1/2 pounds)
Salt
Vegetable oil

For the glaze:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large garlic clove, peeled and grated on a microplane (or crushed in a garlic press)
2 tablespoons white miso paste
2 tablespoons apricot jam
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon water

Place the chicken thighs in a bowl. Drizzle with a little oil and season with salt. Mix to coat each piece and set aside in the refrigerator.

Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it is heating, make the glaze in a small saucepan. Warm the oil over medium heat and add the garlic. Cook, stirring, until sizzling and fragrant. Add the remaining ingredients and whisk until smooth. Bring to a boil, whisking frequently, and remove from heat.

Place the chicken thighs on the hot grill and let cook undisturbed until browned, about 3 minutes. Flip chicken and brush the tops with the warm glaze. Grill until browned on the second side. Flip, brush again with the glaze and grill for about one minute. Repeat two more times, so that each side has two coatings of glaze. Flip and grill for about one minute after the final glazing. Thighs should be slightly charred and cooked through to an internal temperature of at least 165°F. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Notes

• This glaze would work equally well on other chicken cuts, such as drumsticks, breasts, and bone-in chicken thighs. Adjust the initial cooking time so that the chicken is almost cooked through before you brush on the glaze.
• Other types of miso paste, stone fruit jam and vinegar would be just as tasty. A couple ideas: yellow miso paste + peach jam + sherry vinegar, red miso paste + plum jam + red wine vinegar.

(Images: Anjali Prasertong)

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/17vqYAd

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Top 10 Ways to Use Up Overripe Fruit

It happens to just about everyone, one minute you're coming back from the store with nice ripe fruit and  before you know it that fruit is starting to get overripe, mushy, and is not quite as appetizing as it used to be. But wait! Don't throw it out, instead check out "Top 10 Ways to Use Up Overripe Fruit"!

It's a common problem this time of year — the abundance of beautiful, ripe fruit leads us to pick up more than we can possibly eat before those fruits get soft and squishy. There is a certain kind of beauty in a few overly ripe fruits on the counter, but the more pressing question is how can we use them up — and fast?! Here are ten tasty ideas for using up fruits that are past their prime.

1. Make Quick Bread: Of course, we all know brown bananas are great for banana bread. But peaches, nectarines, and strawberries are also great in breads, muffins, and scones, where the chopped or mashed fruit bakes into jammy little pockets.

2. Make Jam: Dana gave us a great strawberry refrigerator jam a while back. This quick jam is a great way to use overripe strawberries — or any other fruits that need using up!

3. Make a Crumble, Cobbler, or Pie: The best solution for fruits that are no longer quite so plump and pretty is to wrap them in some pastry! Use our templates for making Fruit Crumble or Fruit Pie, and sub in whatever fruit needs using up. 

4. Make Smoothies: Smoothies are always a good standby for using up fruit! It doesn't matter how pretty they are as long as they still taste good. I even find that the concentrated flavor of over-ripe fruit makes especially tasty smoothies.

5. Make a Chunky Sauce for Pancakes or Sundaes: Give those syrupy, ripe fruits a rough chop — or even a smash with a potato masher — and you have an instant topping for pancakes or sundaes. Even better, fold the fruit right into the batter for fruit-filled pancakes.

6. Make a Sauce for Meat. Overripe fruit, if it hasn't lost all of its juice, can still impart some good flavor to a sauce. Chop it into small bits (or whiz it in a blender) and add it to some chicken stock and balsamic vinegar to make a glaze or sauce for meat. You could even substituted it for the jam in our Chicken with Shallot-Apricot Sauce.

7. Make a Salad Dressing: If your fruit isn't pretty enough to chop on top of your salad, put it in a blender with some olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and seasonings. It can make a fantastic, slightly sweet dressing for a salad, especially when you add some salty nuts or cheese.

8. Make Juice: If you have a juicer, your fruits can go right on in. If you don't, try pureeing the fruit in a blender or food processor and straining it. The solids are great on top of yogurt and the juice can be drunk on its own or added to glasses of sparkling water.

9. Make Fruit Leather: This is especially good for fruits that have passed the squishy stage and gone to the wizened stage. Blend up the fruit and spread it in a thin layer on a Silpat or dehydrator rack — you can bake it at very low temperature in the oven until it's leather-like or dehydrate it in a dehydrator.

10. Make Popsicles: Last but not least, we can make popsicles — one of my favorite afternoon snacks on a hot summer day. You can juice the fruit first and strain out the solids, but I love leaving some of the fruit a little chunky so that there are pieces to nibble.

What else do you do with overripe fruit?

This post has been updated. Originally published 7/31/08.

(Image: Dana Velden)

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/13xR1Ex

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Drink Recipe: Cold Brewed Jamaica (Hibiscus Iced Tea)

It's been a hot summer (as usual), and people are trying to beat the heat in many different ways. Why not try a new tasty cold drink? It's a little wacky, but if you're up for it check out "Drink Recipe: Cold Brewed Jamaica (Hibiscus Iced Tea)" below!

Cold Brew Jamaica (Hibiscus Iced Tea)

Makes 1 quart

1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers (about 1/2 ounce or 15 grams)
1 cinnamon stick
4 cups cold water
2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup simple syrup
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Place the hibiscus and cinnamon stick in a large jar or bowl. Add water. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8 to 12 hours). Add simple syrup to taste. Strain out the solids and serve over ice with a squeeze of lime, if desired.

Store the brewed jamaica covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Recipe Notes

• Look for dried hibiscus flowers (also called flor de jamaica) at natural food stores, Latin markets or online. You can also substitute 4 hibiscus tea bags in place of the loose flowers.
• You can substitute honey, agave or your sweetener of choice in place of the simple syrup. (Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste.)
• Other aromatics you can steep in your jamaica: sliced fresh ginger, star anise, orange peel, allspice, or lemongrass.

(Images: Anjali Prasertong)

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/14AZyg2

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Recipe: Golden Beet and Barley Salad with Rainbow Chard

Rainbows are famous for having pots of gold in them, but how would one taste? If you're curious then check out "Recipe: Golden Beet and Barley Salad with Rainbow Chard" below!

Golden Beet and Barley Salad with Rainbow Chard

Serves 8 to 10 (makes about 10 cups)

4 medium golden beets, tops removed (see Recipe Note)
1 cup dry pearl barley
1/2 large red onion, minced (about 1 cup)
1 bunch (about 1 pound) rainbow chard
3 tablespoons lemon juice from 1 lemon, divided
4 ounces feta, crumbled, plus extra for serving
2 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
Salt and pepper to taste

Heat the oven to 450°F. Loosely wrap the beets in foil and roast them in the oven until they are just fork tender, 30 to 45 minutes. Let cool enough to handle, then peel and dice the beets into 1/2-inch cubes.

Meanwhile, cook the barley. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the barley and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until the barley is tender, about 30 minutes. Drain the barley and return it to the pan. Cover with a clean dishtowel until ready to use.

Place the onions in a small bowl and cover with cold water. Set aside to soak for at least 30 minutes.

Wash the chard and pat dry, but leave some moisture clinging to the leaves. Strip off the leaves, stack them in a pile, and slice them into 1/2-inch ribbons. Set aside. Dice the stems into small bite-sized pieces and set aside.

Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced chard stems with a pinch of salt until they start to turn translucent around the edges, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the ribboned chard leaves, half of the lemon juice (1 1/2 tablespoons), and a healthy pinch of salt. Continue to cook, stirring gently, until it is bright green and has wilted down, another 4 to 5 minutes. If the pan is very dry, add a few tablespoons of water so the chard can keep steaming.

Drain the red onion from the soaking water. Combine diced beets, cooked barley, chard stems and leaves, and red onion in a large mixing bowl. Let everything cool to room temperature, then stir in the feta. Whisk together the remaining lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and stir to evenly coat all the ingredients.

Taste the mixture. As needed, add salt 1/4 teaspoon at a time. Add pepper to taste.

Serve family-style in a large bowl or in individual bowls with extra feta sprinkled over the top. Leftovers will keep refrigerated for one week.

Recipe Notes:

• If your beets come with their tops still attached, you can substitute them for all or part of the chard.

(Images: Emma Christensen)

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/13bXLvN

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8 Awesome Cakes Inspired By Candy Crush

Some might say there's two kinds of people in the world, those who haven't played Candy Crush, and hopeless Candy Crush addicts. If you're familiar with the wildly popular game, check out these cakes inspired by it in "8 Awesome Cakes Inspired By Candy Crush" below!

Where there's a trend, there's a cake, and Candy Crush is no exception. In case you're one of the few who haven't given in, Candy Crush is a popular puzzle-like game you can play on multiple platforms including Facebook and your phone. You know you're an addict when you start calling things "divine" or "tasty" because Candy Crush lingo is now so ingrained in your everyday vocabulary. 

These cakes inspired by Candy Crush are no easy feat. There's a lot of detail and attention to color that must go into making these things. I think if I were to make a Candy Crush cake I would want to have jelly beans act as my "candy" pieces and I would use Sno-Caps to act as the bomb. 

Have you played the game (well duh, of you course you have)? Would you ever feel moved to make such a magnificent cake? 

(Images: As linked)

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/10MWWJ1

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4th of July: Fun Events

Tomorrow is Independence Day! If you need some ideas for how to celebrate, check out the list of events below to make your 4th of July spectacular!

Whether you're traveling with friends or family, San Diego is everyone's first choice for 4th of July celebrations. Even locals can't think of anything better than relaxing with loved ones on a long stretch of sand and watching an extraordinary show of lights in the sky. Below is a list of our favorite stretches of sand, spectacular fireworks shows around and places to watch the fireworks in San Diego.

Please note, firework displays and events are subject to change and cancellation.

San Diego

• Annual Big Bay Boom July 4 Fireworks Show
  Location: Multiple Locations along San Diego Bay
  Time: 9:00 PM
  Take in the largest display in the county, with fireworks launched from four barges strategically placed around North San Diego Bay, they can be seen from Shelter Island, Harbor Island, the Embarcadero area and Seaport Village/Coronado Landing. Just find a place along the bay and you will not be disappointed. Music from 105.7 "The Walrus" FM radio.
• SeaWorld San Diego
  Location: SeaWorld San Diego
  Time: Fireworks at 9:30 PM
  Extended fireworks show, Into the Blue, set to patriotic music. The park will stay open late until 11:00 PM.
• Ocean Beach
  Location: Ocean Beach Pier at the end of Newport Ave.
  Time: 9:00 PM
  Spend the day picnicking, swimming in the ocean, walking and playing in the sand and shopping along Newport Ave. Then bundle up as the sun sets and pull up a blanket for a really spectacular fireworks show launched from the OB Pier.
• Old Town 4th of July
  Location: Old Town State Historic Park
  Time: 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM
  Parade, crafts and activities of early San Diego recreate an old fashioned Independence Day celebrated on the frontier. (no fireworks)

Coronado

• 4th of July Celebration in Coronado
  Location: Various Locations on Coronado
  Time: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  Celebrate the 4th of July in the Crown City with a parade down Orange Avenue at 10:00 AM, a concert in Spreckels Park at 4:00 PM and fireworks over Glorietta Bay at 9:00 PM.

North County Coastal

• San Diego County Fair 4th of July Celebration
  Location: Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard, Del Mar
  Date: July 4, 2013
  Time: Starts at 9:30 AM, Fireworks at 9:00 PM
  Start off the day at the Fair with a patriotic opening ceremony at 9:30 AM, then enjoy the Hometown Heroes Parade at 7:00 PM, a concert provided by the Navy Band Southwest followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
• La Jolla Cove 4th of July
  Location: Ellen Browning Scripps Park, 1180 Coast Boulevard, La Jolla
  Time: 9:00 PM
  After a day on the beautiful beaches of La Jolla, take in a spectacular set of fireworks with a picturesque background.
• Red, White and BOOM!
  Location: LEGOLAND California, One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad
  Time: Fireworks at 8:30 PM
  Take the whole family and spend the day enjoying over 60 rides, shows and attractions along with some all-American picnic games like burlap races and water-balloon tosses and then top it off with an awe-inspiring fireworks display set to patriotic music.
• Oceanside Freedom Days Parade
  Location:North on N Coast Hwy 101 from Wisconsin Ave to Civic Center Drive (just past City Hall
  Date: June 29, 2013
  Time: 10:00 AM
  Come see floats, bands, walking groups, cool cars and much more. The theme this year is "The Spirit of Freedom." (no fireworks)
• Camp Pendelton Beach Bash
  Location: Del Mar Beach on Camp Pendelton
  Date: July 4, 2013
  Military members and their families enjoy an explosive fireworks show, live bands, a video tribute, sun, surf, patriotism and Esprit de Corps all in one day at the 4th of July Beach Bash!

North County Inland

• Independence Day Celebration
  Location: Grape Day Park, 321 North Broadway, Escondido
  Time: 4:00 to 9:00 PM
  Pack a picnic, and grab a blanket to enjoy a day full of music, magicians, baton twirlers, kid-friendly activities, contests and fireworks.
• Grand Tradition July 4th
  Location: Grand Tradition, 1602 South Mission Road, Fallbrook
  Time: Starts at 4:00 PM, Fireworks at 8:45 PM
  Enjoy a day of live entertainment, dancing, kid friendly activities, Quack-Up Suck Race, Rubber Raft Regatta, food and drink, and fireworks! Tickets include admission and tickets which can be used for food, beverages and activities.
• Mira Mesa Fourth of July Celebration
  Location: Mira Mesa Community Park, Mira Mesa Boulevard and New Salem Street, Mira Mesa
  Time: Fireworks at 9:00 PM
  Come early for the parade and family friendly activities and stay late for the fireworks.
• 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks
  Location: Poway High School Stadium, 15500 Espola Road, Poway
  Time: 7:00 to 10:00 PM
  Following the Poway Old-Fashioned Fourth of July celebration at Old Poway Park (10:00 AM to 4:00 PM), head to Poway High School for music, more food, glow sticks and fireworks.
• Rancho Bernardo's The Spirit of the Fourth
  Location: Webb Park
  Time: 7:00 AM to 9:30 PM
  It's a whole day of fun in Rancho Bernardo with a pancake breakfast; a festival with food, music and games; a parade; and fireworks!
• Rancho Santa Fe's Independence Day Concert on the Green
  Time: 1:00 PM
  Pack a few blankets and chairs for a free patriotic concert performed by the Coastal Communities Concert Band.
• San Marcos 4th of July Celebration
  Location: Bradley Park, Rancho Sante Fe Road and Linda Vista Drive, San Marcos
  Time: 6:00 to 9:00 PM
  Carnival games, jumpers, food and fireworks!
• Scripps Ranch 4th of July Parade and Festival
  Location: Scripps Ranch Hoyt Park (Festival)
  Time: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
  After the community parade, enjoy fun, food, music and games at the free festival. (no fireworks)
• Red White and Boom! Celebration
  Location: Moonlight Amphitheatre, 1200 Vale Terrace Drive, Vista
  Time: 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm
  Celebrate Independence Day Vista Style with live music, the Light up the Night Dinner ($40 for kids 10 and under and $60 for adults) and fireworks. Admission is $5 (kids 5 and under are free). Parking is $5 at Vista High School with shuttles from 1:00 - 11:00 pm and $15 at Brengle Terrace Park.

East County

• El Cajon 4th of July Celebration
  Location: Kennedy Park, 1675 East Madison Avenue
  Time: 12:00 to 9:00 PM
  Enjoy a picnic in sunny San Diego East County and stay for a spectacular fireworks show.
• Julian 4th of July Parade
  Location: Along Main Street from Julian High School to Frank Lane Park
  Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  Julian presents a homegrown event that celebrates the town's gold rush era history, the dedication of veterans and active duty military who serve our country, and local residents who cherish the special qualities of the little town tucked into the Cuyamaca Mountains east of San Diego.
• Ramona's Annual Fourth of July Celebration
  Location: Olive Pierce Middle School, 1521 Hanson Lane, Ramona
  Time: 5:00 to 9:00 PM
  Join the Romana Kiwanis and Rotary clubs for food, fun and fireworks.
• Santee Salutes
  Location: Town Center Community Park East, 550 Park Center Drive, Santee
  Time: 3:30 to 9:30 PM
  Rock out with 80z All Stars playing hits from the 80s, a patriotic ceremony by the HMH-462 Color Guard, inflatable zone, food trucks and fireworks. Parking is $5 for regular and $15 for preferred. Free parking is available at the nearby Costco and Rio Seco School.

South Bay

• National City Carnival
  Location: Kimball Park
  Time: TBD
  The Carnival excitement starts on Friday with games rides food and drinks. The party continues until the 4th of July with fireworks to cap off a long weekend of fun!

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/12lBSoN

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Recipe: Mini Summer Berry Pavlovas with Strawberry Sauce

Doesn't that look delicious? Well what are you waiting for? Grab the ingredient and get cracking on "Recipe: Mini Summer Berry Pavlovas with Strawberry Sauce" right away! Check out the recipe below!

Sheet cakes decorated with red, white and blue berries for the Fourth of July are the summer version of Halloween's graveyard dirt cakes — sort of comforting in their ubiquitousness, but not terribly appealing and usually produced more for looks than taste. But I must have a soft spot for holiday-themed desserts because this year I've made a revamped version of a graveyard cake and now this, a sophisticated spin on a red, white and blue dessert. Instead of soggy sheet cake, light and airy meringue shells are the base for a bright strawberry sauce, fresh whipped cream and handfuls of sweet summer berries. And this recipe is gluten-free!

It always surprises me that pavlovas aren't more popular here in the States, especially given the popularity of gluten-free desserts in general. When I serve them, there is usually at least one guest who has never heard of pavlovas, and is always amazed at how good they are — light yet decadent, full of fresh fruit and whipped cream, with the special crisp-but-soft texture of the meringue base.

Making mini pavlovas is no more difficult than baking one big shell. I use the top of a pint glass to trace circles on parchment paper, then flip the paper over and spread the whipped meringue evenly over the circles. You end up with eight meringue nests; each makes a dessert just right for one person. (If you need fewer than eight, the pavlova shells freeze well for up to one month.)

I find that the sugary meringue needs a tart sauce to cut through the sweetness, so I make a very quick strawberry sauce with just enough sugar to balance out the flavors. Add a dollop of freshly-made whipped cream and an assortment of your favorite summer berries and you have a dessert that is fancy enough for grown-ups, but full of the sweet, summer flavors that appeal to the kid in all of us.

Mini Summer Berry Pavlovas with Strawberry Sauce

Serves 8

1 pound strawberries, hulled and cut into quarters
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 mini pavlova shells, baked and cooled
2 cups fresh berries (any combination of raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or sliced strawberries)

Combine the quartered strawberries, granulated sugar and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until sugar has dissolved and the liquid at the bottom of the pan is simmering. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Using a blender or food processor, process the fruit into a smooth sauce. Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate until cool. (Sauce can be made and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance.)

Combine the cream, powdered sugar and vanilla in a bowl and beat with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.

To assemble, place a pavlova shell on a plate and top with a spoonful of strawberry sauce, a dollop of whipped cream and a scattering of fresh berries. Repeat with remaining shells. Serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

• The baked pavlova shells, once cooled, can be kept in an airtight container for several hours, or frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw for 2 hours at room temperature.

(Images: Anjali Prasertong)

Original Article Here: http://bit.ly/1cgpJYb

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