If you enjoy a Ruben sandwich you will love this twist on the lunch special. Turning corned beef and sauerkraut into a family dinner
is not only quick and easy, but also a crowd favorite. Even the youngest in the family will enjoy this dish. It is great for freezing as well.

 

 

 

 

 

Ingredients:

2 Lbs (4 Cups) Sauerkraut 1 tsp Caraway seed 12 oz Corned Beef cut into slices (you can use canned but I like left over and cut it into squared slices) 1/3 Cup Thousand Island dressing 1 pkg (6-8 slices) Swiss Cheese 2 slices Rye Bread Toasted and cubed 2 tbsp parsley, Chopped if desired

 

Pre heat oven to 350

Spread Sauerkraut in a shallow baking dish and sprinkle Caraway seeds on top. Arrange Corned Beef slices on the Sauerkraut and spoon on the Thousand Island dressing. Layer edge to edge with Swiss Cheese Slices. Top with Rye Bread cubes. Bake in 350 Degree oven for 20 minutes or until hot through and through, garnish with Parsley if desired, Let Stand 5-10 mins and Serve.

Yield 4-6 Servings

(ARA) - Homeowners embarking on a kitchen remodel typically must select the style, the quality of craftsmanship and the materials that meet their unique values and project goals. With the pressing need to increase energy efficiency and conserve resources, green remodeling continues to gain in popularity.

"Incorporating green elements into a kitchen remodel is no longer considered just a passing fad, but a way of life," says Dick Titus, executive vice president of the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA). "Homeowners feel a social responsibility to choose products that are safe for the environment and their family's welfare."

Kitchen cabinets could take up as much as half of a kitchen renovation budget, so it's vital for homeowners wanting to "green" their kitchens to choose a quality cabinet manufacturer with roots in environmental sustainability. KCMA's Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) can simplify the quest. ESP enables cabinet manufacturers to demonstrate their commitment to environmental sustainability and helps consumers easily identify environmentally friendly products. After meeting the certification requirements in areas such as product resource management, air quality, process resource management, environmental stewardship and community relations, companies earn the ESP seal to display on their products. As a criterion in the NAHB Green Building Standard, the first ANSI approved green building rating system for residential construction in the U.S., ESP sets the standard for homeowners looking to integrate affordable eco-friendly cabinets into their home.

ESP encourages the following practices by awarding points to manufacturers who qualify:

Certified by a recognized sustainable forestry program
Wood products, especially cabinets, are an environmentally friendly choice for a number of reasons. One reason is that wood is a naturally renewable resource, meaning new trees will grow in place of those that have already been harvested. ESP certification awards points to manufacturers who use wood in their cabinets that is certified through a recognized sustainable forestry program. Programs such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) put a label on their wood products to show consumers that the resources removed from the forest are at a level the forest is capable of renewing without damaging its future. In doing so, these practices preserve the environment and valuable forest resources.

Use of materials with low levels of formaldehyde
To earn points in ESP's air quality category, manufacturers must prove that 80 percent of particleboard, medium density fiberboard, hardboard and plywood used in the cabinets meet the low formaldehyde emissions level of the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Compwood ATCM. Such materials must be third-party certified by a CARB-approved lab to meet low formaldehyde emission standards. The CARB Compwood ATCM is the lowest formaldehyde standard in the world.  Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance that can be produced by the human body.  It is ubiquitous and a component of hundreds of consumer items.

Eco-friendly manufacturing process
When shopping for eco-friendly cabinets, it is important to not only examine the cabinets, but also the process that was used to manufacture them. Criteria for process resource management includes that the manufacturer have an active recycling program for wastes, an energy-conservation program or another form of environmental-management system. On top of conserving resources, these practices can reduce the emission of pollutants and greenhouse gases, and aid in decreasing landfills, all of which have clear societal benefits.

Commitment to the environment and community
When purchasing ESP certified cabinets, homeowners can rest assured that the manufacturer is committed to both the environment and their community. ESP's environmental stewardship criteria require that the manufacturer have a written policy stating a firm commitment to protect the environment. The community relations category encourages the manufacturer to demonstrate community involvement and leadership through service or charitable organizations and observe all federal, state and local environmental requirements.

With almost  150 ESP certified cabinetry companies to choose from, homeowners have the ability to select environmentally responsible cabinetry tailored to their needs, no matter their price, style, finish and wood preference - just look for the ESP seal located on the base cabinet. For more information and tips on "greening" the home and finding environmentally friendly cabinetry visit www.greencabinetsource.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - With the amount of time you spend in your kitchen, why settle for out-of-date features and decor - especially since it is easy to give your kitchen a 180-degree makeover? Try these six simple projects, and in no time at all you'll have a kitchen where you will want to spend more time.  

Home sweet kitchen
One of the easiest ways to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting is with updated lighting. And, luckily it can be an easy and quick project with the many conversion kits and lighting fixtures available today. Start by swapping any cold and unstylish fluorescent tube lighting with more decorative chandeliers or flush-mount lighting to flood your kitchen with ambient light. Next, fill in shadowy areas - or highlight objects you admire - with spot lights, such as recessed cans or dangling pendant lamps. Soon your kitchen - and your mood - will be glowing.  
Time: Two to six hours depending on the number of fixtures.

Update your sink with an eco-friendly faucet
When it comes to your kitchen faucet, you may think - it's not broke, why fix it? But as a workhorse and focal point of your kitchen, that shouldn't be the case. Instead, update your faucet with a functional, stylish and environmentally friendly model. Available at Lowe's, options such as Anabelle or Dorsey Eco-Performance kitchen faucets from Moen offer pullout/pulldown functionality with three unique settings - eco-performance stream or spray for tasks like washing dishes that require a constant, yet low-water flow, or a full-flow option when filling a pot or pitcher. This simple kitchen update can yield up to a 32 percent water savings - while also adding exquisite styling in to your kitchen. For more information about the Anabelle or Dorsey Eco-Performance faucets from Moen, visit moen.com or call (800) BUY-MOEN (800-289-6636).
Time: Ninety minutes.

Shortage of storage
With so many gadgets, appliances and, don't forget food, kitchen storage can quickly become sparse. Start by organizing your current storage, purging any items that you haven't used in years. Next, if you have room, add a kitchen island or additional cabinets to provide more storage and work room. Or, if space or cash is limited, search your local flea market or online at Craigslist.com for alternative options, like a vintage china cabinet or an antique overhead pot rack to house all your necessities and reduce clutter.  
Time: Six hours.

Add sass with a backsplash
Tired of cleaning food or grease splashes from your kitchen walls? Spruce up drab or dirty-looking kitchen walls with a dynamic backsplash on walls near the sink or stove top. Hundreds of styles, textures and patterns can increase the sophistication in your kitchen and make it easier to clean. Plus, with step-by-step video instructions on how to apply the tiles available at Lowe's Creative Ideas Web site it's as easy as one, two, three.  
Time: Six hours.

Getting a new grip on cabinets
Over time, cabinets made of wood or metal materials can deteriorate if they're not properly maintained, making your kitchen look run-down or aged. Cleaning your cabinets with soap and water, then polishing, is the best way to make them look new again. To combat grime, fingerprints and other messy substances, apply cabinet cleaner such as Liquid Gold to a cloth and buff cabinets until they shine. Replacing old handles and hardware on your cabinets with a new stylish design and finish to match your new faucet will add the final polished look to your kitchen.  
Time: Two to five hours depending on the number of cabinets.

Advance the technology
Don't limit your technology to your phone and your TV - transform your kitchen with innovative appliances. Whether it's a microwave that fits in a drawer, a refrigerator with a TV, an oven that you can program  or a customized wine and beverage cooler, adding new upscale appliances can take enjoyment in your kitchen to a whole new level. However, if these high-end appliances are out of your budget, upgrade your current appliances with new energy-efficient models in the latest finishes.
Time: Two hours shopping plus waiting on deliveries.

In no time at all you can easily turn your kitchen from drab to fab with just a few simple projects.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

 

 

3 cups all purpose flour
2 tablespoons Baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup of Suger
3 Eggs Beaten
1 cup of Milk
*optional Pineapple or bananas
vegetable oil
Powdered Sugar

Combine first four ingredients; stir well.
Add eggs, milk & optional fruit; stir until smooth.

Heat 3" of oil to 375 degrees, carefully drop batter by heaping tablespoonfuls into hot oil.

Cook 5 to 6 at a time, cooking one minute on each side.
Drain well on paper towels and sprinkle with powder suger.
Hint: Sift powdered sugar over the top

 

Helping Feed Homeless and Hungry Americans

Lighthouse Food Farm wants to give Hungry Americans hope where there is no hope.

Lighthouse Food Farm is a standalone Christian Agency and is depending upon many Companies and Individuals like you to help with this greatly needed work that serves so many.

We donate 100% of the all the crops that we grow to Soup Kitchens, elderly, Shut-Ins and to individuals that we learn that need help from the different local authorities, churches and other agencys.

We are a Non-Profit Organization, our 501(c)3 Tax-Exempt Status is in Progress. This means your donations and contributions are Tax Deductible Exemptions to the Lighthouse Food Farm with 501(c)3 status pending. Together we can continue to Help Feed Hungry Americans and Homeless Americans. Your generous donations and contributions are greatly appreciated.

We have had help from many individuals, small businesses, local Farms, Garden centers, Small and Large Corporations like: Wal-Mart, Lowe's, Home Depot, Park's Seed, Dicksons Tractor, Local Chicken Farms, Wilson's Processing, local grocery stores, and people willing to allow us to borrow their equipment when needed here at the Lighthouse Food Farm. There have been many more individuals that don't live in our area that donated to help us help others in need. This doesn't begin to cover all who have donated time, expertise or monetarily to help the Lighthouse Food Farm. Thank you all for the Help that has made this Lighthouse Food Farm a Great success.

Lighthouse Food Farm Mission Statement

Our mission is to eradicate hunger, alleviate poverty and green our environment. We also bring together children, adults and seniors in urban areas to plant food gardens on unused land and space throughout America. Community members are given the tools and education to create a lasting sustainable solution to these issues and receive hope for a better future. Neighbors share their fresh, healthy, organic produce with local food banks to help others in need. This system of working together for a common cause while increasing diversity builds safer cities. Planting beautiful food gardens helps to lower the heat index in urban areas, aiding the fight against global warming.

Visit Lighthouse Food Farm - Feeding Hungry Americans for more details of our mission.

 

Lighthouse Food Farm is Helping Feed Hungry Americans

Lighthouse Food Farm has been focused on upper region of South Carolina. Because of the Great need we have expanded our ideals and work across America.

We grow fresh vegetables and fruits to donate to help feed hungry Americans. All vegetables and fruits are organically grown. We raise a spring crop of the normal spring vegetables and during the winter we grow greens like Turnip Greens, Collards, Curly Mustard and Kale. We donate the fresh vegetables and fruit to soup kitchens, food banks, food shelves and to people that have fallen through the cracks of our system.

We are continuing to expand our farms as the need for what we do is expanding as well. We expand our crops in the event of finding a good deal in property to purchase or if someone is willing to donate the use of their land for us to use.

Our emphasis and attention has been focused on an outcry of distress in Hunger, due to the excessive layoffs from the Job market.

We have dealt with the Elderly, Shut-ins, displaced families, medically Indigent, and those that are working, but having a difficult time in making ends meet.

Our great focus is toward the specialized needs in surrounding Areas of immediate Hunger that faces so many today. There isn't enough money if just one person in the family is working; children are not eating well with the common family. It takes every penny when you have small babies to exist.

Have you ever looked into the eyes of a hungry child and watched them when a small amount of food was put before them? It will make your heart sing with delight to know you have helped that suffering to end.

We have looked on these suffering issues for too long. Help us give them Hope.

Lighthouse Food Farm wants to give Americans hope where there is no hope.

Lighthouse Food Farm is a standalone Christian Agency and is depending upon many Companies and Individuals like you to help with this greatly needed work that serves so many.

Thank you in advance for your consideration in this matter to Help End Hunger.

 

If you wish to make a contribution, please make it to:

Mail Contribution to:

Please Make Checks Payable to: Lighthouse Food Farm

Lighthouse Food Farm

% Jim Bonham

1282 Dr. Johns Road

Westminster, SC 29693

or

Use PayPal, Credit Card or Debit Card to Contribute

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jim Bonham - Executive Director
Lighthouse Food Farm
http://www.jimbonham.com

See Our FREE Auction
http://www.jimbonham.com/auction

See Our FREE Classifieds
http://www.jimbonham.com/classifieds

 

 

(ARA) - "There probably isn't a room in the house where we don't store something," writes Mervyn Kaufman in his new book, "Store It!" from Filipacchi Publishing. "Lack of space is certainly a challenge, but it is superseded in every instance by how best to use that space."

But before adding or rearranging storage in any room, Kaufman suggests you examine and evaluate. Keep what's needed. Then, begin your space-saving journey. The American Hardwood Information Center, www.HardwoodInfo.com, recommends you consider the following creative tips for practical, yet beautiful, ways to increase storage potential throughout your home.

First impressions are lasting ones, so if totes and umbrellas, shoes and boots are cluttering the entrance of your home, make them disappear without becoming inaccessible. Consider a bench with added storage space under a lift-up seat as a convenient clutter catcher, complete with niches for stashing caps, gloves and scarves yet a handy spot for shoe-boot exchanges. Splurge on a wall-mounted hardwood cabinet or a handsome hardwood storage piece to hide keys, garage door openers, newspapers and mail, keeping them out of sight yet close at hand as needed.

Don't let the idea of a formal living room dissuade you from making it a storage workhorse. A coffee table with an open shelf or shallow drawers can be more than an elegant surface for coffee service or a floral arrangement. Corners and wall space between and around windows cry out for hardwood chests and unique built-ins to display collectibles or stash coasters, cocktail napkins and other entertaining essentials. And the warm colors and unique grain patterns of hardwoods are guaranteed to enhance your room decor.

Add greater functionality to your kitchen by incorporating hardwood cabinets with accessories that remove clutter and make neatness second nature - wooden dividers to organize drawers, carousel shelving so nothing gets buried in corner cabinets, deep cabinet drawers to store cookware or stacked dinnerware. And be creative. Fill unused space between base cabinets with retractable kitchen-towel bars or narrow pull-out spice drawers. Even install a shallow tilt-out drawer in front of your sink for sponges or small-scale cleaning tools.

Today's dining rooms double as libraries, music rooms or places to do homework or crafts. If cramped for storage, look for a dining table - new or heirloom - with drawers beneath its top surface. Beautiful hardwood storage - a hutch, sideboard or breakfront - lends practicality; warmth and style as long as it complements the look of your dining table and chairs. A wall of books, whether in fine hardwood furniture or built-in shelving, exploits wall space and adds character.

Hardwood cabinet options abound as you look to increase the functionality of your family room. Near the TV, stereo or beside the kids' play area, consider freestanding hardwood storage - a hutch, entertainment center, a clutch of bookcases. And utilize overlooked spaces by adding a low cupboard under a window - ideal for spare pillows and throws; building a window seat - either with drawers or a hinged top;  placing a low bookcase against the back of a sofa. Simply organize and store essentials according to where you'll use them.

Why not establish a unique "floating" home office? It doesn't matter where you place it. What'll make it work is where you "float" it and how you store what you want to keep there. Find and refinish a hardwood secretary, then give it wheels and let it "float." It'll be handy for bill-paying when the desk folds down and a decorative accent piece when not in use. Or mobilize a stylish hardwood desk or table with detachable storage shelves; then get to work. As room requirements change, "float" the workstation to its new home - a kitchen corner or family room niche - whatever the situation will allow.

And finally, end those bedroom blahs by eliminating clutter. Hardwood dressers with deep drawers increase storage efficiency. Nightstands with niches or shallow drawers are great for glasses, remote controls and reading material. Open shelving with pull-out baskets can store socks, hose, scarves and undergarments. And consider adding a window seat to store extra quilts and linens. True, only you may see the room, but an uncluttered bedroom - yours or your kids' - is the most livable one.

As author Kaufman suggests, "Even the most practical storage solutions can be attractive and appealing." Beautifully thought-out cabinetry made of U.S. hardwoods will enhance every room in your home while providing stunning storage space for all the important 'things' in your life.

For more information on including U.S. hardwoods in your home or office, visit the American Hardwood Information Center at www.HardwoodInfo.com.

 

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - Interior design continues to evolve rapidly. But it's not just going in one direction - it's branching out in new ways and giving homeowners fodder for ideas about how they can turn their existing house into their dream home. There is something for every taste, too, as different design concepts become more fully developed, catering to all people and all styles of homes.

The wide variety of options that homeowners have means that they need to keep focused on a specific design goal. Exposed ductwork or industrial-looking concrete floors won't work in some houses, while antler chandeliers or tufted chaises won't work in others. There are a few elements that can be mixed and matched across styles, but the inclusion of organic materials, particularly wood like Western Red Cedar, for interior design works for all styles of homes.

Today, more homeowners are improving and renovating their homes - updating both the decor and the functional elements - rather than taking on the challenge of selling and buying in the current market. Many of them are also using and developing their own skills, when it comes to both design and bringing their ideas to life. And as winter closes in, do-it-yourselfers are looking for low-cost, high-impact projects that will make their homes feel updated and more inviting.

Figuratively, bringing the outdoors in can have a warming effect on your home. Look to nature for inspiration on everything from color to materials to elements that reflect the landscape that surrounds your home.

"Modern technology allows us to blur the lines between indoors and outdoors," says Ray Johnston, an architect with Johnston Architects in the Pacific Northwest. "To enhance this blending, exterior materials can extend through windows to inside walls. This treatment welcomes the outdoors in and has the effect of expanding space.  At the same time, the rich color and texture of a natural material, like a warm wood, adds great character and depth to an interior space."

Minor structural additions and interior treatments add appeal to a stagnant room. Also new, environmentally friendly clay treatments are available in a variety of colors, and add a rustic but subtle tactile quality. The rich color and attractive grain of Western Red Cedar panel provide immediate interest without the added struggle of learning to create faux finishes with paint or mastering a trowel. If you want to add a unique touch of color, cedar takes stains exceptionally well. And if you just want to preserve the natural color of the wood, sealing it will help it last for years.

Adding smaller design touches is a great option for those who don't feel comfortable tackling big projects. Many newer homes don't have the classic character of houses from years gone by, but there are ways to incorporate it. "Homeowners are adding natural wood molding and trims as a low-cost way to add warmth and elegance to a simple room," says Paul Mackie of the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association. Look for a stable wood that will not warp and twist over the years. Cedar is a great choice for ceiling, picture and floor moldings, as well as other trims, because of its uniform grain.

Switching out older, hollow-core doors with new wood models will not only help to diminish noise, it will add a long-lasting extra bit of character to your home, no matter its age. Windows are a key design element in any home, too, and can be enhanced by adding new cedar frames, blinds or shutters in styles ranging from embellished and traditional to minimalist and modern.

The dynamic appeal of nature can be applied to your floors as well. Add new interest to kitchens, foyers, bathrooms and more with tiles made of natural materials like cork, bamboo, slate, wood (new or reclaimed) or travertine - the possibilities are almost endless.

Western Red Cedar is also a great choice to create architectural details, like a post and beam look in a home, or to conceal visually distracting elements like support beams or duct work. For more ideas on adding warmth to a home with Western Red Cedar, visit www.wrcla.org.

By updating your home with natural touches, you add long-lasting appeal that won't go out of style. Not only will you be able to enjoy it for years to come, but it will provide added enticements for any potential future buyers.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

 

(ARA) - Smaller homes are making a comeback. More families are hanging onto their existing homes and improving these smaller properties, instead of trading up.

Maximizing livable space is how the American Institute of Architects (AIA) describes this new trend, a by-product of a down new-housing and real estate market. Smaller remodel projects - finishing attics and basements - readily achieve that goal, making the home more enjoyable today while increasing its resale value tomorrow.

Nearly 130 million homes are currently in need of work, including adjustments to meet "changing preferences and lifestyles," such as family members returning home to live, according to the Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University.

As the owner of a smaller home, you should know that adding even a small bathroom is among the best investments you can make, typically returning 65 percent or more of the cost on resale. In the attic or the basement, you can save money on a bath addition by using macerating plumbing, which requires no digging for under-floor drainage piping.

For this same reason, you can also convert an existing room or even a closet into a new small bathroom to better accommodate guests or even family members moving into your home. No digging for drainage means a quicker, less messy and cheaper installation experience. Macerating plumbing systems can handle the waste from a toilet as well as a sink and a tub/shower. As a result, you can create not just a powder room, but a full bath with all the decorative accessories.

Install an up toilet
Known as an up toilet or above-floor plumbing, macerating technology is the way to go, says East Taunton, Mass., plumber Mike Sikorski, who installs Saniflo brand products. Plumbing waste and water are pumped through small-diameter piping, which can be located inside the wall, right into the sewer or septic tank. Sikorski estimates that this type of system saves his customers $1,000 on average, "and that's on the low side," he says.

Mike Vines of Lake Orion, Mich., recently improved his home with a basement upgrade using an up-toilet system. "I couldn't be happier," he says of the half bath he added to the family home. "In these tough times, anything you can do to increase the value of your house, the better off you're going to be."

Saving money is key
Cost-saving projects like these are among the ways homeowners will most likely focus their future remodeling dollars, according to the 2009 Remodeling Market in Transition report prepared by the Joint Center.

"I believe that the struggling economy has actually helped the smaller profile repair/remodel market," says Steve Norton, president of M & N Plumbing Supply in Denver. "People are staying the course, and macerating plumbing offers a lower-cost option to breaking up cement."

If you're staying put in your smaller home, but want to improve its livability and long-term value, consider adding a bathroom with macerating plumbing.

Tips for a better bath
Here are some tips to make the most of your bathroom addition, even if it's a small one:

* Maximize space by placing a pedestal sink in the corner along with a mirrored medicine cabinet designed for in-corner installation.  
* Plan your new bath so the door won't bump into anything when it is opened. The National Kitchen & Bath Association (www.nkba.org) is a good resource for planning dimensions. 
* Must you have a tub, or will a shower suffice? Putting in an enclosed stall shower saves a lot of space.
* Install grab bars to prevent falls. They're not just for the elderly. The Home Safety Council (www.homesafetycouncil.org) recommends grab bars in every bath.
* No window? Good lighting can make a room look and feel larger. Recessed lighting is a smart choice for small spaces. Task lighting over the sink is a welcome feature.
* Don't forget the fan. Installing a fan can help prevent moisture problems, such as mold and mildew.

Learn more about low-cost, above-floor bathroom and grey water pumping systems by visiting www.saniflo.com or calling (800) 571-8191.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

(ARA) - Preparing for a holiday gathering at your home, amid the hustle and bustle of the season, doesn't have to be daunting. Try these tips to take the pressure off your next get-together:

Start by getting organized. Build a guest list, menu, shopping list, and house project list. Prioritize tasks based on what is most important and, when possible, start with those. If you don't have enough time to get to everything, at least you'll have tackled the higher-priority items. Also, determine which recipes can be prepared before the day of the event. Making even a few dishes ahead of time can reduce stress and mess on the big day.

Since the kitchen is often the hub of activity, spend a little extra time getting this room ready. Remove clutter and excessive decor from countertops to create plenty of work space for rolling out dough and prep work. Dispose of out-dated ingredients in your pantry, spice cabinet or refrigerator to make room for fresh foods.

Give your kitchen a fresh look and improve efficiency with a few quick, cost-effective updates. Change your cabinet hardware, for example, or replace task lighting with an energy-efficient option. Also consider installing a new kitchen faucet. HomeFoodSafety.org found that, of the 60 percent of moms who ask for help in the kitchen, half enlist their children. This makes the holiday season a perfect time for reinforcing safety habits.

According to manufacturer research, the kitchen faucet is the most heavily used kitchen appliance - a family of four uses it, on average, about 100 to 150 times per day. Today's latest models offer innovations that make food prep and clean-up easier. The Pilar pull-down kitchen faucet by Delta incorporates Touch2O Technology. All it takes to turn on the Pilar faucet with Touch2O Technology is a simple tap - anywhere on the spout or handle. When hands get messy, the flow of water can be started with a forearm or wrist, helping to keep the faucet clean while reducing the potential for cross-contamination. The tap feature also makes it easier to turn off the water flow when it's not needed between tasks, saving water.

Take extra precautions to avoid spreading dirt and germs. Wash utensils, cutting boards and countertops after working with raw poultry or other proteins and thoroughly wash hands between tasks.

In the thick of cold and flu season, be sure to stock washrooms with full soap dispensers and set out a bottle or two of anti-microbial hand sanitizer in high-traffic areas.

While you may be tempted to set out a buffet for guests to graze throughout the gathering, remember that letting food sit out too long can invite the growth of unwanted bacteria. Set out smaller amounts of food, ice or heat accordingly and refresh often.

Of course, after all is said and done, you'll want to look back on the event and smile, so enjoy yourself. Remember that you may be the only person who knows if something doesn't turn out just as planned. Don't let small problems get you down and don't be afraid to ask for help. Happy entertaining.

Courtesy of ARAcontent