Here's where the sweeps will live

Hello, foodies…

I sat down earlier to pay some bills (do you still like to do that the old-fashioned way, too…you know, with checks, envelopes, and stamps!?) and I realized that it’s going to be May this week! I think I lost a week somewhere…or two. Time is FLYING! We’ve only got one “Do You Know the Muffin Pan” recipe left for the month of April. Join me this Wednesday night on In the Kitchen with David for my Vegetarian Taco Cups!

Vegetarian Taco Cups

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp whole milk
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 12 small flour tortillas (small taco size)
• 2 (15.5-oz) cans low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1-1/4 cups jarred salsa
• 3 cups shredded romaine lettuce
• 2 large vine-ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 3/4 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
• 1 (16-oz) container guacamole
• 12 cilantro leaves, to garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly coat 2 (6-cup) Texas-size muffin pans with oil spray and set aside.
2. Whisk together the sour cream, milk, and salt in a small bowl until smooth and refrigerate until needed. Place a flour tortilla into each muffin cup. Press down and to the sides, carefully folding back the tortilla edges to form a cup and leaving an opening in the center for the filling.
3. Bake on the middle rack of the oven until golden brown, about 12–15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the cups cool completely.
4. While the cups are baking, place the salsa and black beans into a medium-size saucepan and cook over medium-low heat for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove the pot from the stove and set aside.
5. To assemble the cups, divide the lettuce, chopped tomatoes, cooked black beans, and cheese evenly among the baked tortilla cups. Top each cup with 2–3 Tbsp of the guacamole. Drizzle each cup with the sour cream mixture and garnish each with a cilantro leaf.

This recipe is prepared using the Emeril by All-Clad 13-Piece Hard Enamel Cookware Set (K39965).

Go to David's Recipe Item Page for the full list of items that David has used in his recipes.

To all my vegetarian foodies out there, you’re welcome. You've been asking for more vegetarian recipes and we heard you. This recipe is a real winner for veggie and meat lovers alike. Thanks to the black beans and Colby Jack cheese, these cups are hearty, flavorful, and filling. If you’d like to add a little shredded chicken or ground beef to these cups, however, feel free! Just add it to the saucepan with the beans and salsa. Whenever you decide to serve these little apps, just be sure to do so on a plate. They’re very much like little taco salads or a layered dip and are best eaten with a fork.

Foodies, I suspect lots of you have terrific layered recipes. For your blog question today, share those recipes with me and your fellow foodies. Do you make a great pizza dip or layered salad? Maybe you make a great trifle with ice cream? Even a layer cake counts! I’ll see you Wednesday for In the Kitchen with David at 8pm ET.

Keep it flavorful!
—David

Hello, foodies…

Cinco de Mayo is coming up on Monday! If you’re not having a Mexican fiesta this weekend, you might want to fix that. Or, why not make Monday a little less Monday-like and have a celebration that night! We love Mexican food here on In the Kitchen with David and we’ve made dozens of recipes that are worthy of celebrating, but below you’ll find our 20 Best Cinco de Mayo recipes. Look for that shareable pin on Pinterest to find these!

Kiwi Cilantro Margarita

Virgin Piña Colada

Tex Mex Savory Waffle

Deconstructed Enchilada Salad

Beef & Cheese Empanadas

Tomatillo Guacamole

Beef Brisket Quesadillas

Vegetarian Taco Cups

Warm Gazpacho with Goat Cheese Croutons

Chicken Nachos

Mexican Pot Pie with Biscuit Topping

Smoked Mexican Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Cabbage and Pepper Slaw 

Grilled Chimichurri Flank Steak 

Grilled Yuca with Guasacaca Guacamole

Mexican Fiesta Wontons

Stuffed Burgers with Poblano Pepper Relish

Mexican Tamale Pie

Mexican Taco Bake

Sopapillas with Dulce de Leche Sauce

Chocolate Peanut Butter Fried Ice Cream

Feliz Cocinando! (Happy Cooking!)
—David

I was finally coming to terms with the brutal winter we’ve had, and then it snowed in April! I thought “that’s it I’m booking a vacation!” I don’t know if this is dramatic, but I think Mother Nature might have it out for me. Here’s how our latest family vaca went down:

Day 1: Our vacation got off to the right start as we spent our first day soaking up the sun on the beach.   While the Littles took on the waves with their boogie boards, I sat with for hours with a new book and my toes in the sand.

{Cue the Go-Go’s “Vacation,” because this was turning out to be everything we could have asked for in a get-a-way.}

Day 2: Littlest Little has an internal alarm clock like you wouldn't believe. She woke up at 5:45 am and to avoid waking up Hubby and the other Littles, we snuck out for an early morning walk on the beach.

After our walk we came back to the room to get ready for the day, and within minutes what had looked like the perfect beach day turned into an absolute down pour. WHAT!

One thing you should know about me is that I never let anything rain on my parade. Especially when my “parade” happens to be a week-long vacation! My next challenge was to entertain the Littles for the rest of the week with indoor activities. I picked up every brochure in the hotel lobby and off we were sight-seeing and exploring!

Although our vacation didn’t go exactly as planned, and there were a lot less beach days than I had originally imagined, we still had a great time and made lots of memories! Here are pictures from our adventures!

Day 3: Arcade Fun!

I look forward to finding these little "prizes" around the house and in my vacuum cleaner!

After a day full of gaming and skee-balling, we found a movie theatre and saw Captain America 2!

Day 4: Visit to the Aquarium

I even ran into a fellow QVC Queen while we were there! 

    After the aquarium we had a friendly match of Family bowling!

Day 5: We did see some sun on Day 5, but not enough to hang out on the beach, so we found an outdoor kid zone where the Littles had a blast!

Oh and I found a QVC outlet… and also had a blast 

Day 6: Yet another non-beach day, so we found a place to take the Littles on a helicopter ride!

On our last night we went to see a Pirate Show and had a great dinner!

Here is our picture from the Pirate show and dinner... Remember Hubby is not fond of Facebook photos!     

Hi, everyone!

Guess WHAT? A brand new season of You’re Home with Jillstarts tomorrow on QVC Plus, which is QVC’s brand-new channel available to DIRECTV customers and a handful of folks through smaller, select cable providers. But…EVERYONE can watch on QVC.com via our live stream. Go to QVC.com, Watch Live TV, then click on the QVC Plus tab. And, we’ll always have past episodes available on the You’re Home with Jill page if you can’t catch it and want to watch later.

We’ve got a whole hour together and I’ll walk you through every step of our DIY project and recipe…and we’re not just doing one of each in each show. We’ve got SEVERAL! Think of it as the YHJ that we’ve always dreamed of. We have all the time in the world and I have so many ideas to share with you! I can’t wait to hear what you think…PLEASE let me know, okay?

So onto tomorrow’s show! Here’s one of the DIY projects I’m doing…a DIY Container Herb Garden!

Isn’t that an interesting way to grow your favorite herbs? I saw something like it at the Philadelphia Flower Show and knew I could make it even better.

Here’s what you need—a some wood, hammer, nails, screws—you get it!

Plant your favorite herbs into the mason jars—I used oregano, rosemary, thyme, sage, and basil.

Assemble the stand by hammering the two post-like pieces onto the wooden beams that will hold your mason jars.

Slip the clamps around the jars (to size them), then drill them onto the board.

Just make sure you have enough space on each row for the jars—plus room to water.

Fit the jars into the clamps.

Voila! If you like, label your plants by simply writing the herb-name on popsicle sticks.

There are so many great placement possibilities for your garden. Imagine this on a sunny porch, the side of a shed or garage, or along a decorative landscaping wall. If your kitchen or dining room gets plenty of natural light, you could even display it there so have direct access to your favorite fresh herbs.

Now, I promised you a recipe earlier and I really like to keep my promises! Here’s one of the recipes we’re making tomorrow…Strawberry Cupcakes. MMMMM.

Strawberry Cupcakes

Ingredients:
Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix
• 3 Tbsp flour
• 1 (3-oz) box of strawberry Jell-O
• 5 oz frozen strawberries, thawed
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup cold water

Strawberry Syrup:

• 2 cups sliced & hulled fresh strawberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water

Strawberry Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 3–4 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
• 4 Tbsp Strawberry Syrup (recipe below), chilled
• 1–3 Tbsp milk
• Pinch of salt (optional)

Directions:

1. To prepare the cake, preheat the oven to the recommended temperature on the cake box. Combine the cake mix, flour, and Jell-O in a large mixing bowl. Using a hand mixer, mix on medium speed while adding the oil, eggs, and strawberries.
2. Mix well and pour into 12-cup muffin pan lined with cupcake liners. Bake the cake according to the package directions. Cool completely before frosting.
3. To prepare the strawberry syrup, combine the strawberries, water, and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
4. Remove the syrup from the heat and pour it into blender. Blend until smooth.
5. To prepare the frosting, cream the butter and the confectioners' sugar together. Add the strawberry syrup, one Tbsp at a time, and the salt (if desired) and beat on high for 30 seconds, until fluffy. If it's too thick, add the milk, one Tbsp at a time, until it's the desired consistency.

This recipe is prepared with the Ninja Pulse 40-oz Blender and Food Processor (K39995).

I’ll see you tomorrow at 7pm ET—I can hardly WAIT! Don’t forget we’re on QVC Plus—check your channel line-up to see if you get the channel. Otherwise, tune in online! Remember, go to QVC.com, Watch Live TV, then click on the QVC Plus tab.

From my home to yours,
—Jill

I've been putting off writing this post because I knew that seeing it in black and white would be painful. We've been trying to expand our family for the past couple years, and we finally came to a place where our last chance has passed.

I don’t say complete our family, because that would imply that my family of four is anything less than perfect just the way it is.  Those of you, who know me, would agree my life revolves around my two lovely four year olds.

Our first, Grace, was adopted after a long, emotional, expensive & difficult process.  Every second was worth it however; when I placed my hand on her baby foot seconds after she took her first breath, and I took the first breath of my new, now blessedly whole, life. 

Our second daughter Georgia is a medical marvel.   Conceived in a lab, she is the only life my body ever held on to.  We tried to make her for more than three years, and all those failed fertility attempts and lost babies led us to her.

Born just 5 months after her sister, she gave me the gift of knowing what it was like to grow a human being.

They have both given me the gift of feeling such intense love that I often burst into tears on any given normal afternoon while watching them doing nothing more ordinary than just existing.  Being a mom is the best thing I have ever done.  It is what I am best at. Even in my most difficult mommy moments, which happen every day, I know my strongest skill is being a mother.  I do nothing better.  Though I adore my job, I would run away from it without a second’s pause, for the chance to be nothing more than Grace and Georgia’s mom. 

We've never been able to complete another pregnancy naturally, or with the help of a doctor, since Georgia was born. There is no explanation. No reason. Nothing to fix.  I’m healthy and young, as is my husband (though I’m younger ill be quick to point out ;) But years of “assistance” and loss that, each time threatens to take me to a place of sadness that I never fully believe I will come back from, is now over.  We won't do it again.  I can’t do it again.

I never adored being pregnant which is ironic given how badly I tried to get to that state. You can read about my pregnancy (I gained 60 pounds while on ABC news) here. Adoption is more natural for me. You can read this early 2012 blog to hear about the long history of adoption in my family and how Grace became ours. I would adopt an entire brood of children if the Lord willed it. 

Sometimes I fantasize about a baby just showing up on our door-step, not literally, but with that type of ease.  A family member with a friend, or someone from our church with a teenager who needs help.   Those are the only types of scenarios in which we could ever adopt again. We just don’t have enough money to save another baby. It’s just that expensive.

Our first time adopting we had help, yet we were barely able to scrape together the funds needed to bring Grace home. We saved money by selling a car, canceling everything from cable TV to dental insurance, and taking second jobs.  But we didn’t have two children to support then. We were in our 20’s and we could live like that for a while, denying ourselves everything and sustaining ourselves with the knowledge that we were insuring the life of our baby.

Five years later, and it’s not just my husband and I anymore. Thankfully, we have those two fabulous little lives we are responsible for, and I won’t take away from the children I have been blessed with in order to have more.  

All it takes is some time with Grace and Georgia for me to be reminded that it would be so unfair for me to spend less time with them in order and try to make some extra money or tell them that they need to go without in order for our family to be able to save money to give them a sibling. I couldn’t do it. But that’s not the point.  The point is, it costs more than thirty thousand dollars to adopt.   If I can’t do it, I wonder how anyone can, and unfortunately, most can’t.

In the past, when people who wanted to adopt came to this realization that they would be unable to welcome a child into their homes due to financial reasons, they had few places to turn.

Now however, thanks to a wonderful organization that provides light and hope to families faced with the same dilemma that I have found myself facing, many more families have been able to realize their dreams of becoming parents. I became involved with Helpusadopt.org 2011, when their CEO, an adoptive mom of two, found me through an article I wrote for our college alumni magazine.  It was love at first meet.

Becky went through the same things I did trying to get pregnant and then adopting. But she didn’t stop there. She started a non-profit organization that helps the childless become parents and the parentless find forever homes.  The organization doesn’t discriminate; they don’t decide what parents should look like. They just give grants to loving people who want nothing more than to adopt a child. Since 2007 Helpusadopt.org has given over $770,000 in aid and helped create more than 91 families. 

I now tell my story at their events and help raise money for them any way I can. QVC has been kind enough to support me and donate every year at the annual Neiman Marcus King Of Prussia Spring Fashion Show. 

This year we raised 30 thousand dollars!  But we have more to do. Our goal this year is over 600 thousand. That money will help children know the love of a parent. These children will have the blessing of knowing someone who will teach them to tie their shoes, and kiss them goodnight. 

My constant supporter, confidante, cheerleader and friend Rachel Boesing comes with me every year. She is also adopted and she encourages me as I stand up in front of everyone and try to not cry through my adoption story.

This year, I once again put on my pretty dress and praised the Lord that he put me in a position to share the helpusadopt story. But, it was also a difficult night for me. This whole year has been a challenge. Perhaps the Lord has brought us to the end of this journey and allowed us to remain without a third child so that I can better understand what so many people go through.

The pain isn’t as severe as years ago, because I have my two little miracles to hold and kiss and dance around the patio with on a warm spring afternoon. But, the pain of loss and closure of that door into new motherhood, hits those buried, yet still tender, feelings I went through during all those years when I was childless and didn’t know for certain if I would ever become a mom. The harsh reality that one of the main reasons Grace and Georgia will never experience a younger sibling is because it’s too expensive to adopt just kills me.  Wondering if there is a child out there that will be born into a family that needs us and we can’t do anything about it, could and has kept me up at night.  

I know so many of you have your own stories of infertility, miscarriage, and adoption. I encourage you to share them. Tell your friends, your pastor, write it down, tell me. Just get it out; you never know whom it can help.  I know it’s painful.  Life can be painful.  I go through hours of hair and makeup to get to that happy face you see on TV.  Under it, I’m just like you.  I’ve cried my eyes out at work and gone back in to get the running mascara fixed so I could talk about a bed, a TV, or a pair of shoes 10 minutes later on national television.  I have pain, I have loss, I don’t want to get out of bed some days. But, I also have the immeasurable joys that the love of my perfect family of four has brought me. If the end of my story can help one more person complete their family, than it’s all been worth it.   

Read more about helpusadopt.org on their web site.  You can also read the transcript from last year’s event here. See pictures of my little blessings and follow our world 24/7 at www.facebook.com/kerstinlindquistqvc

God bless you and thanks for being part of my supportive QVC family.

Kerstin

If you are a mom, I don't have to tell you how having children changes everything.  It happens the moment we hold our babies for the very first time. 

Suddenly we go from working women to working moms. Everything changes, especially our values and priorities in life.  We have a new passion – being a mom.  That's what happened to me after having my sons Ben, 7 and Larry, 3. 

Don't get me wrong, it didn't happen at the flip of a switch, but slowly over time, as I started to miss out on the little things that mattered most to them: tucking them into bed, waking up with them in the morning, baseball practice, swim lessons and fourth of July fireworks.  Prior to having kids, I missed out on so many simple things people do with friends and family.  It was a sacrifice I was willing to make when I chose to start a career as a broadcast journalist almost 20 years ago. 

Since then, I missed happy hours with my girlfriends, Thanksgiving dinners with my family, birthday parties, baby showers and friends' weddings.  I was okay with it because "the news" was my baby, one I gave all my time and attention.  The 12-14 hour days, week in and week out, were worth it to help realize my dream of being an Anchor/Reporter in Philadelphia.  I loved my job, worked hard to get there and was proud of my accomplishments.  But sometimes, God has other plans than the ones we make for ourselves.  And I realized, as I watched my children's disappointment night after night, for having to tuck me into bed instead of me tucking them in, that my life was not just about me and what I want anymore.  I owed it to my family to find a better work/life balance, to give my boys more of myself.  So, I left my job and a very successful career, just like that.  I shocked everyone, my friends, parents, and quite frankly, myself.  I stayed home with the kids and enjoyed my first Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve off in more than a decade.  It felt great! 

The kids were happy, my husband was happy, I was happy, and it stayed that way…. for all of about six months.  You see, I have worked since I was 14 years old, holding part time jobs through high school and college.  Call it a sound work ethic installed by my parents.  Fortunately one day, unbeknownst to me, God set me on a new path, one I could never have dreamed.  I do pilates, and my instructor, who happens to model part time for QVC, knew I was struggling to figure out a new career and I would be prefect hosting at the Q.  I thought she was crazy.  Sure, I knew how to talk in front of a camera and how to have a conversation on live television, but talk six minutes about cotton sheets? Eight minutes about a flameless candle?  I knew nothing about retail.  Give me a crippling snowstorm, raging fire, corruption at city hall - now those I can talk about!  But clothes, makeup, cookware and computers?  No way! Then my husband told me to give it a shot.  Now I thought HE was crazy.  But, he was quick to point out my LOVE LOVE LOVE of shopping and how I buy and use everything I feared having to speak about.  So, when QVC announced an open casting call last summer, I heeded his advice.  I made the trip to New York City to audition and gave it my best shot.  If anything, I thought the adventure of just being in the big apple and doing something completely foreign to me, would be a great memory-making experience.  I could have never predicted that 10,000 applicants and two more auditions later, QVC would choose ME to be one of its two new hosts.  FUNNY WHERE LIFE CAN TAKE YOU. 

Sure, being a working mom still has its sacrifices. I am now "the new kid on the block" having so much to learn and to prove myself all over again.  And, like news, QVC is a 24-hour, seven day a week operation, which also calls for working crazy overnight hours and holidays (but not Christmas!!! Huge for the kiddos!).  However, the difference with QVC is I was able to be up front about my desires to put my family first and not one single manager looked at me as if my head was blue and turning 360 degrees.  I no longer work 14 hour days standing in snowstorms or hurricanes in far off places.  I can stick close to home, working out of the same studio, and never have to worry about Susan Graver's fashions catching fire and putting an entire city block in danger the minute I am about to walk out the door (breaking news almost always happens just when your shift is about to end).  Now, I can get home to my kids and make good on my promises that Mommy will be there.  For that I am so thankful and I am so looking forward to the privilege of proving myself to you and growing as a host here at QVC!

I will still be working late night/early morning hours, but I’m excited to be filling in as the Social Host and chatting duringAM Style with Leah Williams on Saturday mornings at 8AM. Please join us and also join me on my facebook page; www.facebook.com/StaceyStaufferQVC

-Stacey       

Happy Mother’s Day to all the PET MOM’s!  Thank you all SO MUCH for sharing photos of your precious fur babies with us!  Here is this week’s Showcase…

XOXO from your fellow pet lovers, Carolyn and Dan.

Carolyn & Dan’s Pawparazzi Showcase

Our hosts are getting ready to celebrate Mother's Day by sharing the best advice their mom's ever gave them. Take a peek below!  

Mary Beth Roe

She taught me how to be a godly woman by being a living example. I'm so grateful that she was my Mom and best friend!

Courtney Cason

At the end of the day all you have is your name. Make sure you're the best person you can be and do yourself proud.

Shawn Killinger

“You give your kids two things…roots and wings"

Dan Wheeler

“My mom always told me that with God's help I could do whatever I put my mind to BUT to always, always be grateful for all my blessings!”

Rachel Boesing

"Always remember, we are all connected."

David Venable

My mother, Sarah, is my biggest cheerleader!  She has always told me that through hard work and determination ... I can achieve anything."  "I love you with all my heart, Mom!

Carolyn Gracie

"I adore my Mom...she is SO smart and the older I get, the smarter SHE gets! We talk on the phone nearly every day and she has given me tons of great advice over the years. I think the best advice from mom has been concerning being married. My husband and I have been married for 25 years, and like most marriages we've hit our rough spots along the way here and there. Mom always advised me to hang in there, be patient, to compromise when necessary and to LISTEN. Also to keep finding ways to laugh and have fun together. She also practices what she preaches.  She and Dad have been married for nearly 57 years!"

Sandra Bennett

Growing up my mom always said, "Where there is a will, there is a way." I heard it so many times as a kid that I ignored it. However, as an adult, I have thought of those words countless times whenever I have felt like I couldn't do something. And she was right! Instead of giving up, there usually is a way. 

Gabrielle Kerr

“All my life my mother has given me spot on advice (too bad it took me until my thirties to start following it!).  My mom always encouraged me to see as much of the world as possible before having kids.  That's exactly what I did and I'm excited to return to some of my favorite places with my own family!”

Albany Irvin

“We were always moving around when I was growing up so my Mom always told us that kindness counts. You never know where someone may be in their life or what they are might be going through, so always be kind and open to all people.”

Jane Treacy

It’s hard to choose just one. My mother always had the perfect thing to say no matter what was going on. One of my favorites is, “too much human energy is wasted upon worrying about things that never happen!”

Nancy Hornback

“The best advice my mom gave me was when I was leaving for Asia. She said, “keep your palate open”.

These days, people like to get a little crazy with food. Take for instance, the cronut craze: Here in New York, a wise pastry chef thought up this hybrid delectable, and created a croissant donut fusion that people would wait 3 hours in line for! I told you, it’s pretty crazy. But lots of us have weird eating habits, and I’d venture to say some of the combos we like to whip up might taste less bizarre than they sound!

I happen to have a few favorite weird eats, and the unlikely flavors can really summon a craving. Try some of mine and please share any kooky combos you love in the comments!

I dare you to try: Cream cheese and Jalapeno Jelly spread on crackers.

Raise your hand if you’ve ever had jalapeno jelly? No one? Well you might not spread it on your toast in the morning (it’s spicy indeed!) but a tiny dollop really does something to the cream cheese and cracker combo. It’s an easy and delicious hors d’oeuvre to serve up at your next party…or dig into late at night. No judgment!

I dare you to try: A fresh watermelon salad sprinkled with sea salt.

Nothing like a salty sweet combo! You’re going to love how salt brings out the flavor of the watermelon. This is an ultra refreshing treat, and great for backyard BBQ’s (a nice contrast to the meat and fixings!) and it’s also surprisingly low in calories. Add a sprig of mint leaves both for a garnish and another flavor dimension.

I dare you to try: Chocolate with bacon.

Let’s face it. You really can’t go wrong with bacon…anything! But it seems using the incredibly rich cured meat is becoming more and more popular in dessert items. Well, that’s fine by me. Pick up a chocolate bar that contains chunks of bacon for a light nibble, or go all the way by drizzling chocolate on cooled bacon. You won’t be sorry, that’s the truth.

Hi All! Danny Randell here, LOGO by Lori Goldstein's Brand Ambassador, sharing the LOGO Love. I'm here to give you an inside view on Lori's whirlwind fashion world. I'm blessed to work day-to-day on the line, her life, and all of her special projects. It's a gift to be a part of it all and she generously shares her fashion magic with me.

It's beyond inspiring to work with such a passionate force of fashion nature! Which reminds me...

Mothers day is fast approaching and we love to hear from you about all things warm and motherly. 

What does Mothers day mean to you?

For me it's honoring all the strong women in my life. It can be about so much more than a literal mother. Growing up with my father in a single parent home, I didn't have a traditional mom. Because of that, I had the fortune and openness of many influential super women who have come into my world.

Now, I am beyond grateful to get to work with my mentor, one of the strongest women I have ever met. Lori Goldstein shares her vision with me and so many more women of LOGO. To me, she shares an unparalleled warmth and a wisdom that's beyond motherly. It's tough love and tenderness, and I get to experience it day to day. I can't imagine a more gratifying and enriching experience. It truly is a unique love.

We love to hear from each and every one who gets to share, express and play in our world. How do you share the love with your mother figures? 

Listening to all the voices like a symphony, Logo fans have reached out to we've collected those who have recommended some of our pieces for their mothers!  LOVE THAT!!!! Here are some looks that we have put together with those pieces, picked for you BY YOU!  We've paired pieces in the colors we love and totally encourage you to be your very own stylist, mix and match away...

Check out all of these pieces in our brand shop, and feel free to share the motherly love! 

xx Danny

In Honor of Mother's Day we asked a few of our friends at the Q to tell us, "What is the Best Advice Your Mother Ever Gave You?" Share your advice in the comments below!

Mally:

“The best advice my mother gave me is to treat EVERYONE like a superstar. Whether you are meeting someone for the first time, or you've known that person your entire life, everyone deserves to be treated with respect and kindness.”

Joan Rivers:

"My wonderful mother Beatrice"

"Our family in Larchmont: me on the left with my father, mother and sister, Barbara."

"My daughter Melissa and I."

“Family is the most important thing you’ll ever have in your life. Hold them dear to your heart always”

Lori Goldstein:

"The best advice my mother ever shared with me, was the importance of manners. I take that wisdom with me always and forever..."

Renee Greenstein:

"Mother’s Day always brings me fond memories of my father.  He fulfilled the role of both mother and father in my life, and it’s him who immediately comes to mind this time of year. He was a chef who taught me how to make blackberry deep dish, and how to carve a turkey and put it back together. He made me feel like Cinderella; like Daddy’s princess who could do anything she set her mind to. I was actually blessed to have another mother figure enter my life, my mother-in-law Bea. After my father’s passing, she provided the kind of love and support that only a mother could provide. To this day, she is my largest cheerleader! Sometimes motherhood comes to us in non-traditional ways. On Mother’s Day, let’s remember to also celebrate those who fulfill the role of Mom even though that may not be what we call them."

Tara McConnell:

“As much as my mom has inspired so many of my recipes -- and even the idea behind temp-tations itself -- the best advice she ever gave me actually has nothing to do with cooking. But it has everything to do with life. From the time I was little, my mom always told me: In everything you do, act as if someone is watching you. That way, you'll make choices you can stand up for and live a life you can be proud of. It's a simple thought, but harder than it sounds! Still, it's served me well for my whole life. Love you, mom!”

Judith Ripka:

“I often remember the walks my mother and I would take around the neighborhood when I was a young girl. She taught me to see the beauty in all the little things around us, no matter how ordinary they might appear to be.   Even recognizing the details of the buildings we walked past was a result of her unique way of observing her surroundings, and her influence can be seen throughout my collections even today.  Consistent with her outlook on life, one of my mother’s favorite expressions was “You can look back, but don’t stare.”   It reminds me to stay in the solution rather than dwelling on the past, and that has turned out to be great advice, both personally and professionally.

MOTHER’S DAY ADVICE SWEEPSTAKES

OFFICIAL RULES

SPONSOR: This Sweepstakes is sponsored by QVC, 1200 Wilson Drive, West Chester, PA 19380 (“Sponsor”).

ELIGIBILITY: No purchase necessary. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Void where prohibited. Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the United States and the District of Columbia, excluding Rhode Island, who are 18 years or older at the time of Submission and have submitted a valid Submission prior to the end of the Sweepstakes. Any person who submits any information to Sponsor or any other party in connection with the Sweepstakes is a “Participant”.  Any references to “you” or forms of “you” shall mean the Participant.

Employees, officers and directors of QVC or its affiliates, and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of each, their agents, affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising and promotion agencies, and those involved in the production, development, implementation or handling of the Sweepstakes are ineligible to enter the Sweepstakes or win a Prize.

Without limiting any other provision of these Sweepstakes Rules, any winner may be required to sign and return a Release as a condition to receipt of a prize under this Sweepstakes.

SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes begins on May 9, 2014 and ends at 11:59 pm (ET) on May 11, 2014 (the "Sweepstakes Period"). 

HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes, online via www.qvc.com or by mail.

To enter online, you must have access to the QVC Community.  To gain access to the QVC Community, you must open a QVC account.  No purchase is necessary to open an account.  Creating a QVC account requires providing a title (i.e., Mr., Mrs.), first name, last name, email address, physical address, and phone number.  You then submit your “Story” within the comments section of the Blog on www.qvc.com.  Follow the submissions guidelines listed in these Sweepstakes Rules and submit your Submission ("Submission").  A Submission includes any story, text or any other information or data in any form that a Participant submits in any manner, directly or indirectly, to Sponsor in connection with the Sweepstakes.  Sweepstakes is limited to one (1) Submission per Participant.  Duplicate Submissions will be removed.  In the event Participants exceed the stated limit, only the earliest Submission will be reviewed. No e-mail or fax Submissions will be accepted.

To enter the Sweepstakes by mail, send your name, address, and daytime telephone number and Submission Story on a standard 4 inch by 6 inch postcard addressed to Mother’s Day Advice Sweepstakes, 1200 Wilson Drive MC – 202, West Chester, PA 19380. (“Mail Entry”).

Online Entries must be submitted by 11:59 AM ET on May 11, 2014. All Mail Entries must be postmarked by May 11, 2014, and received by May 13, 2014.

Limit of one (1) entry per person during the entry period either by mail or online. Any person who attempts to participate with entries in excess of these entry limitations will be disqualified.Any other attempted form of Sweepstakes entry is void. Any person who attempts to participate under multiple identities or uses any device or artifice to enter in excess of this entry limitation will be disqualified; use of programmed, automated or like means of entry is prohibited. All duplicate entries will be discarded. All Mail Entries are the non-returnable property of Sponsors.

Sponsors are not responsible for lost, misdirected or late entries caused by hardware or software errors or other technological malfunctions or failure of any kind or invalid/non-operational device, or lost, late, mutilated, misdirected or postage-due mail. Sponsors are not responsible for the failure of the delivery carrier responsible for delivery of any entry.

DRAWING:  Each eligible submission will be entered once in a random prize drawing to be held on or about May 13, 2014. QVC, Inc. retains the right to delay the prize drawing. Winner will be chosen at random from the pool of eligible entries received. Odds of winning are determined by the number of eligible entries received. Winning entry is subject to validation.

PRIZE: Three (3) First Prize Winners will be randomly selected to receive:

(1) IT Cosmetics Gift Bag - Retail Value: $352

(1) Peter Thomas Roth Gift Bag – Retail Value: $528

(1) Honora Pearls – Retail Value: $129

(1) Emma & Sofia Saffiano Leather Addison Zip Top Tote – Retail Value: $100

Total Approximate Retail Value of all Four (4) Prizes Combined: $1,109.00

Prizing is limited to one prize per person per household. Prize is limited to what is listed in these official rules. Prize winner (“Winner”) is not entitled to any surplus between actual value of prize and stated retail value. In the event Sponsor is unable to award prize as stated, Winner will receive a substitute prize of equal or greater value, at Sponsor’s discretion. Any costs or fees not specifically listed herein are the responsibility of the Winner.

If a potential Winner is unable or unwilling to accept the prize for any reason, he/she will be disqualified and the entire prize forfeited; and, in such event, an alternate Winner shall be selected from among all remaining eligible Submissions received.  Prizes cannot be substituted or transferred by Winner. If a Prize must be forfeited, Winner will not be given the cash value of the prize or any component of the prize.  Winner is solely responsible for all expenses not expressly included. All taxes are the responsibility of the Winner. Winner may be required to sign an IRS Form 1099, Form W-9, or the equivalent for all prizes valued at $600 or greater, or for any prize as to which Sponsor, in its sole discretion, believes it is warranted.  PRIZES PROVIDED BY QVC.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:  Within the comments section of the blog or on a postcard, tell us the best advice your mom ever gave you. The Winner will be selected randomly from all eligible Submissions.

ONCE TRANSMITTED ALL SUBMISSIONS BECOME PART OF THE SWEEPSTAKES AND MAY NOT BE REMOVED BY THE Participant, EVEN IF Participant CEASES OR WITHDRAWS FROM SWEEPSTAKES CONSIDERATION. Any Submission may be posted on Sponsor’s website and/or any other website specified by Sponsor and may be available to be viewed by anyone with access to the Internet.  All Submissions may remain on any website specified by Sponsor in perpetuity or for as long as Sponsor deems appropriate to archive.

REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. By entering the Sweepstakes and making any Submission, a Participant hereby represents and warrants to Sponsor and its affiliated entities that (a) the Participant has obtained all permissions necessary to post publicly the Submission and any portion thereof; (b) the Submission is an original work of authorship, created by Participant, has not been previously published or won any award, and there are no conflicting rights in the Submission, including but not limited to copyright, rights of publicity or privacy, or other intellectual property rights; (c) the Submission will not infringe upon the intellectual property rights of any third party, including by way of example and not by limitation, any copyright, trademark or patent rights or rights of publicity or privacy belonging to any third party; (d) the Participant is a legal resident of the United States or the District of Columbia, excluding Rhode Island, and is at the time of Submission, at least 18 years of age; (e) the Participant has the right to agree to, and fully perform the Participant’s obligations under these Sweepstakes Rules; and (f) the Participant has the consent of any third parties as required to grant the rights and licenses granted by Participant hereunder, including without limitation all licenses, rights, assignments of rights, waivers of non-transferable rights, consents and permissions to any portion of the Submission or performance contained in such Submission, and to all underlying elements or other works incorporated into the Submission (including without limitation any dialog/monologue, music, lyrics, voices, statements, photos and likeness releases for any person who appears in or is identifiable in the Submission).

Participant hereby agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its respective parents, successors, assigns and licensees, harmless from and against any losses or expenses incurred by Sponsor relating to any right or license granted, or any breach of any representation, warranty or covenant made, by Participant under these Sweepstakes Rules.

PUBLICITY RELEASE. Subject to applicable law, Participant irrevocably grants Sponsor the right to use the Submission and the Participant’s name, voice, likeness and/or biographical material, and has obtained identical rights of any third parties depicted in the Submission for advertising, promotional and/or publicity purposes in connection with the Sweepstakes, in all forms of media (now and hereafter known), worldwide in perpetuity, without any obligation or consideration of Sponsor, or its affiliated entities.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

Participant must have express written consent of any individual featured in the Submission. Please do not submit duplicate Submissions. Any Submissions that violate the Sweepstakes Rules will be removed. Any Submission using the likeness of others or uses or displays copyrighted material without permission will be removed.

Submissions may not portray the Sponsor in a negative light.  Submissions may not contain offensive, defamatory, inappropriate, or obscene material, in the sole discretion of Sponsor. In the event the Submission contains photographic images or likenesses of individuals, those individuals must have provided the Participant with adequate written permission to use the image, and must not be under contract or have any guild or association affiliations that would limit the right of Sponsors to use the Submission for any purpose for which a license or right is granted to Sponsors under these Sweepstakes Rules.

Sponsor is not responsible for legal protection or clearance of Submissions in any form. Sponsor reserves the right to request evidence of permission or original work and further reserves the right to disqualify any Submission it deems infringing or inappropriate in any form, according to these Sweepstakes Rules.  Except where expressly prohibited by law, once transmitted all submissions become part of the Sweepstakes and may not be removed by the Participant, even if Participant ceases membership or withdraws from Sweepstakes consideration.

Sponsor grants a limited license to use its proprietary text, logos, and trademarks provided and necessary to create a Submission.  Except as set forth in the preceding sentence, no rights in the Sponsor Content are granted to Contestant for any other purpose.  “Sponsor Content” means Sponsor’s name, proprietary text, logos, trademarks, trade names, service names and any other intellectual property of Sponsor.

WINNER NOTIFICATION: The potential Winner will be notified on or about May 13, 2014. The potential Winner will be required to respond (as directed) to the phone and/or e-mail notification within the time period specified in the notification (“Notification”). The failure to respond timely to the notification may result in forfeiture of the prizes; and, in such case, Sponsor may choose an alternate Winner from the remaining eligible submissions. The potential Winner also will be sent an affidavit of eligibility / liability / publicity release ("Release"); and together with the Notification and any other release or document required to be executed by Sponsor, the (“Prize Acceptance Documents”). Unless restricted by law, the potential Winner will be required to complete and return the Release within the time period specified therein. As a condition of receiving a prize, potential Winner shall, in the form specified by Sponsor, provide a perpetual non-exclusive license to Sponsor to use the Submission in any and all media throughout the world, in perpetuity, for any purpose whatsoever, without any additional compensation, the term of which shall be the entire life of the copyright. Should potential Winner be unwilling or otherwise unable to enter into the license, or provide such permissions and/or releases or otherwise cannot accept or receive the prize for any reason, an alternate Winner will be selected by Sponsor from the remaining eligible Submissions until one who is able to meet all requirements can be selected. Potential winner must provide Sponsor with all signatures on the Release and return all documents in a timely manner as required pursuant to these Sweepstakes Rules in order to be eligible to receive any prize.

USE OF SUBMISSIONS: LICENSE. Participant, by entering the Sweepstakes or making any Submission to or for the benefit of Sponsor, hereby irrevocably grants to Sponsor a non-exclusive, sub-licensable, royalty-free, fully paid license and right to use, distribute, make derivative works from and otherwise exploit the Submission, in any manner and in any medium now known or hereafter devised, throughout the world in perpetuity, including without limitation the right to use the Submission in whole or in part in merchandising, advertising, marketing or promotion or for any other commercial or non-commercial purpose related to the Sweepstakes or not related to the Sweepstakes. Participant hereby forever waives and relinquishes all so-called "moral rights (droit moral)" now or hereafter recognized.  Participant agrees that Sponsor shall have sole discretion in determining the extent and manner of use of Submission and is not obligated to use any Submission.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Sponsor shall not be liable to Participants for, and each Participant releases Sponsor from, any failure to supply any prize or any part thereof, by reason of any acts of God, any action(s), regulation(s), order(s) or request(s) by any governmental or quasi-governmental entity (whether or not the action(s), regulations(s), order(s) or request(s) prove(s) to be invalid), equipment failure, threatened terrorist acts, terrorist acts, air raid, blackout, act of public enemy, earthquake, war (declared or undeclared), fire, flood, epidemic, explosion, unusually severe weather, hurricane, embargo, labor dispute or strike (whether legal or illegal), labor or material shortage, transportation interruption of any kind, work slow-down, civil disturbance, insurrection, riot, or any other similar or dissimilar cause beyond any of the Sponsor’s control. Sponsor is not responsible for, and each Participant hereby releases Sponsor from any claim with respect to, any: (a) lost, late, misdirected, undeliverable, incomplete or indecipherable Submissions due to system errors or failures, or faulty transmissions or other telecommunications malfunctions and/or Submissions; (b) technical failures of any kinds; (c) failures of any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes; (d) unauthorized human and/or mechanical intervention in any part of the submission process or the Sweepstakes; (e) technical or human error which may occur in the administration of the Sweepstakes or the processing of Submissions; or (f) any injury or damage to persons or property which may be caused, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part, from any Participant’s participation in the Sweepstakes or receipt or use of any prize.

Sponsor reserves the right to disqualify any Participant it finds to be violating these Sweepstakes Rules. Sponsor reserves the right to require any Winner to submit to a confidential background check to confirm eligibility and help ensure that the use of any Submission will not bring Sponsor into public disrepute, contempt, scandal or ridicule or reflect unfavorably on the Sweepstakes as determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion. Sponsor reserves the right to cancel or suspend the Sweepstakes for any reason.  Sponsor has the right, but not the obligation, to use any Submission. Sponsor may, in its sole discretion, cancel, modify or suspend the Sweepstakes should a virus, bug, computer problem, unauthorized intervention or other causes beyond Sponsor’s control, corrupt the administration, security or proper play of the Sweepstakes. Sponsor may prohibit a Participant from participating in the Sweepstakes or winning a prize if, in its sole discretion, it determines such Participant is attempting to undermine the legitimate operation of the Sweepstakes by cheating, plagiarizing, engaging in any deception, or any other unfair playing practices of intending to annoy, abuse, threaten, undermine or harass any other players or Sponsor representatives. The internal laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will govern the Sweepstakes, these Sweepstakes Rules, and any disputes regarding these Sweepstakes Rules and/or this Sweepstakes. Any attempt to deliberately damage or undermine the legitimate operation or fair play of the Sweepstakes may be in violation of criminal and civil laws and will result in disqualification of the Participant from participation in the Sweepstakes. Should such an attempt be made, Sponsor reserves the right to seek remedies and damages (including attorney fees) to the fullest extent of the law, including criminal prosecution.

PRIVACY: Information collected from Participant is subject to QVC’s privacy statement located at www.qvc.com (“Privacy Policy”).  By entering the Sweepstakes, you accept Sponsor’s Privacy Policy.  In the event of a conflict between these Sweepstakes Rules and Sponsor’s Privacy Policy, Sponsor’s Privacy Policy will govern.

GOVERNING LAW / LIMITATION OF LIABILITY:

BY ENTERING THE SWEEPSTAKES, Participant AGREES THAT: (1) ANY AND ALL DISPUTES, CLAIMS AND CAUSES OF ACTION ARISING OUT OF OR CONNECTED WITH THE SWEEPSTAKES, OR ANY PRIZE AWARDED, WILL BE RESOLVED INDIVIDUALLY, WITHOUT RESORT TO ANY FORM OF CLASS ACTION; (2) ANY AND ALL CLAIMS, JUDGMENTS AND AWARDS WILL BE LIMITED TO ACTUAL THIRD-PARTY, OUT-OF-POCKET COSTS INCURRED, (IF ANY), NOT TO EXCEED TWO HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS ($250.00), BUT IN NO EVENT WILL ATTORNEYS’ FEES BE AWARDED OR RECOVERABLE; (3) UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL ANY Participant BE PERMITTED TO OBTAIN ANY AWARD FOR, AND Participant HEREBY KNOWINGLY AND EXPRESSLY WAIVES ANY AND ALL RIGHTS TO (I) HAVE DAMAGES MULTIPLIED OR OTHERWISE INCREASED RIGHTS AND (II) SEEK, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR SPECIAL DAMAGES, LOST PROFITS AND/OR ANY OTHER DAMAGES, OTHER THAN ACTUAL OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES NOT TO EXCEED TWO HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS ($250.00); AND (4) Participant’S REMEDIES ARE LIMITED TO A CLAIM FOR MONEY DAMAGES (IF ANY) AND Participant IRREVOCABLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT TO SEEK INJUNCTIVE OR EQUITABLE RELIEF.  SOME JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW THE LIMITATIONS OR EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE ABOVE MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU. 

MISCELLANEOUS:

The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision of these Sweepstakes Rules or the Prize Acceptance Documents will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision.  In the event that any provision of the Sweepstakes Rules or the Prize Acceptance Documents is determined to be invalid or otherwise unenforceable or illegal, the other provisions will remain in effect and will be construed in accordance with their terms as if the invalid or illegal provision were not contained herein.  Sponsor’s failure to enforce any term of these Official Sweepstakes Rules or any Prize Acceptance Documents will not constitute a waiver of that provision.  Participants agree to waive any rights to claim ambiguity of these Sweepstakes Rules.  Headings are solely for convenience of reference and will not be deemed to affect in any manner the meaning or intent of the documents or any provision hereof.

DIGITAL MILLENNIUM COPYRIGHT ACT: Sponsor’s policy is to respond to notices of alleged infringement that comply with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act ("DMCA").

WINNER’S LIST: For the names of prize winners, mail a self-addressed, stamped envelope to Mother’s Day Advice Sweepstakes, QVC Studio Park Mail Code 201, West Chester, PA 19380.

Have you seen the video about the job interviews American Greetings conducted for their “Director of Operations” position?  If not, when you have 4 minutes watch it at: Facebook.com/valerieparrhill, then join us back here….

Did you reach for a tissue?  I sure did.

When I think about how sacrificially my Mother has cared for my Dad, my brothers and me and now that circle of love includes the “Grands and the Great-grands”.  By the decisions she’s made, she taught me the importance of "family first”.  She is always there for us, a wonderful home-maker, marvelous cook, gifted gardener, a truly amazing Mother!  

When I watched the video the second time, with a greater appreciation for what the job really was, I chuckled when they said the job is 24/7 and requires degrees in medicine, finance and the culinary arts.  So true!   From boo-boos to full blown fevers, from allowances to balancing the household checking account, from school lunches to delicious, hot, holiday meals for 18 - all with a smile!  My mother has done all of this with grace and made it look effortless.  Now….I know better!  It’s not effortless, with careful planning and preparation she just made it look easy.  

Mother has not only showered us with love, she has also shared with us her love for the Lord and has encouraged us in our walk with Him.  Her daily prayers mean so much to all of us.  The words “Thank you Mother” seem so inadequate, but are nonetheless, heartfelt!  

Happy Mother’s Day! 

Valerie

Please share your thoughts on motherhood or a Mother Tribute in the comment section below.

Hi, everyone!

We’re calling tomorrow night’s You’re Home with Jill "Little Changes, Big Impact" and I'll be sharing several ideas that won't take much time or effort. But, in the end, they'll look like they did! On Friday I showed you how to make functional, adorable sewing kits from mason jars. And today, I’m going to show you the power of the cheesesteak sandwich...how a simple change in the toppings yields a totally different sandwich!

As you know, cheesesteaks are a Philadelphia specialty. I grew up in Southern California, so I really discovered these tasty sandwiches when I moved to the Philadelphia area some 20 years ago. And it’s been a love, love relationship ever since. In South Philly, you’ll get a classic sandwich with Provolone cheese, Cheese Whiz, and onions…if you say the magic words, “wiz wit!” But, all around the city, you can get a variety of cheesesteaks with lots of different toppings. And, they really do give you a whole new sandwich.

If you’re not able to swing by Philadelphia for a cheesesteak, you can make your own sandwich at home. First thing’s first, pick up some sirloin steaks by Kansas City Steak Company—you’ll get a terrific sandwich. Second, find the freshest rolls you can. Go to your local bakery early in the morning. It’s SO worth it. If you don’t have a fresh roll, you won’t have a good cheesesteak!

Cheesesteaks Three Ways

Ingredients:

• Olive oil, to coat the pan
• 3 (4-6 oz) servings sirloin steak (preferably Kansas City) cut into thin strips
• 3 Italian rolls
  

Buffalo Beef Style:

• 2 (1-oz) slices Buffalo Mozzarella
• 1 oz Blue Cheese crumbles
• Buffalo-style hot sauce, to taste
• 1 Tbsp scallion, finely chopped
• 1 Tbsp celery, finely chopped

South Philly Style:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 (1-oz) slices Provolone Cheese
• 1 oz Cheese Whiz
• Ketchup, to taste

Greek Style:

• 2 oz Feta, crumbled
• 1 oz cucumber, finely diced
• 1 oz tomato, finely diced
• 1 oz red onion, thinly sliced

Directions:

To prepare the Buffalo Beef Style, heat the olive oil in a grill pan medium-high heat. Place the steak meat in the grill pan to sear, moving it around the pan quickly to make sure each side is seared. Place the Mozzarella on top of the steak and cook until melted. Spoon the meat and cheese into the roll and garnish with the Blue Cheese, Buffalo sauce, scallions, and celery.

To prepare the South Philly Style, heat the oil in a grill pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until golden, or about 10 minutes. Set aside. Drizzle the same pan with olive oil to coat, and then place the steak meat in the grill pan to sear, moving it around the pan quickly to make sure each side is seared. Place the Provolone cheese on top of the steak and cook until melted. Spoon the meat and cheese into the roll and garnish with the Cheese Whiz, sautéed onions, and ketchup.

To prepare the Greek Style, drizzle a grill pan with olive oil to coat, and then place the steak meat in the grill pan to sear, moving it around the pan quickly to make sure each side is seared. Place the Feta cheese on top of the steak and cook until melted. Spoon the meat and cheese into the roll and garnish with the cucumber, tomato, and onion.

I’m making all three sandwiches tomorrow night—here’s a little something to stir up your appetite!

Don’t forget—You’re Home with Jill is on at 7pm ET on QVC Plus. If you don’t get the channel from your local cable provider, you can watch it ANYTIME on QVC.com! You can access it right on the homepage tomorrow. After that, the episode lives forever on my “Previous Episodes” page on the YHJ page.

I can’t wait for you to see what other DIY projects and recipes we have in store tomorrow…these are just a taste! Literally!

From my home to yours,
—Jill

Have you seen the video about the job interviews American Greetings conducted for their “Director of Operations” position?  If not, when you have 4 minutes watch it here: http://youtu.be/HB3xM93rXbY

While it could be viewed by some as the toughest job in the world, I would consider motherhood as the most rewarding.  And even though, this video takes each job requirement to the extreme, it did make me pause and think about how sacrificially my Mother has cared for my Dad, my brothers and me and now that circle of love includes the “grands and the great-grands."  By the decisions she’s made, she's taught me the importance of “family first." She is always there for us, a wonderful home-maker, marvelous cook, gifted gardener - a truly amazing woman!

When I watched the video the second time, with a greater appreciation for what the job posting really was, I chuckled when they said the job is 24/7 and requires degrees in medicine, finance and the culinary arts.  So true!  From boo-boos to full blown fevers, from allowances to balancing the household checking account, from school lunches to delicious, hot holiday meals for 18 - all with a smile!  My mother has done all of this with grace and made it look easy.  Now….I know better!  It’s not effortless, with careful planning and preparation she just made it look effortless.  

Mother has not only showered us with love, she has also shared with us her love for the Lord and has encouraged us in our walk with Him.  Her daily prayers mean so much to all of us.  The words “Thank you Mother” seem so inadequate, but are nonetheless, heartfelt!    

Happy Mother’s Day!

Please share your thoughts on motherhood or offer a Mother's Tribute to your mom….

Valerie Parr Hill

Hello to the QVC community! I'm thrilled to join you. I'm also excited to approach beauty and skin care from a new angle. First, a little background on me. I'm a practicing gastroenterologist and internist with a special interest in women's health and an Assistant Professor of Medicine at NYU School of Medicine. Ten years ago, I embarked on a second career in the media, and I currently appear on TV several times a week. I'm also the medical editor for Health magazine. Working in the media has allowed me to reach a bigger audience and to do what I'm really passionate about: breaking down complex health information into easily understood takeaways. Last, but certainly not least, I'm the mother of two rambunctious boys, living in NYC. So my plate is quite full, as you can see!

People often ask me, "How do you balance it all?" and the truth is, it's not easy. We all live very busy and complicated lives, often prioritizing the well-being of others above our own. But it's truly essential to find time for ourselves. This is what motivated me to start TULA. TULA is the Sanskrit word for balance, and this product line is all about helping women achieve true balance in their lives.

So I wanted to find effective ingredients to keep our skin gorgeous, and I created the TULA skin-care line using various skin nourishing ingredients and probiotic technology. Probiotics—organisms (bacteria or yeast) naturally found in humans—have always fascinated me and attracted my close attention. TULA probiotic technology features rice proteins; vitamins A, C, and E; and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as green tea and blueberry extracts.

The TULA line includes a purifying cleanser, an illuminating face serum, a revitalizing eye cream, and a day-and-night hydrating cream. The line delivers skin-nourishing benefits while also providing antiaging skin-care solutions. As women, we're always on the go, and this line enables us to experience a simple and comprehensive skin-care regimen.

TULA Probiotic Skincare Discovery Collection

I want to welcome you to the TULA community and embark with you on an exciting journey towards a healthier and more beautiful you!

—Dr. Raj

Hi, everyone!

I’m REALLY excited about this Wednesday’s You’re Home with Jill…we’re doing a whole Southwestern theme and making crafts and recipes that will whisk you away to New Mexico, Texas, Nevada, Arizona—wherever your mind goes when you think about that beautiful area. I’ve always loved the people, culture, and rich history that stems in that region and the color palate is by far my favorite from which to work and decorate—especially during the summer months when bright colors like turquoise, yellow, and purple are everywhere.

I’m sure most of you have heard of a dream catcher, yes?

Dream catchers are handmade Native American creations designed to ward off bad dreams. According to some research I’ve done, it’s common for Native American parents and grandparents to weave these and hang them above a baby’s crib. The bad dreams get caught in the web, while the positive dreams slip through the hole in the center of the dream catcher and glide down the feathers to the sleeping child below.

I love the symbolism behind these crafts as well as their decorative beauty, and so I decided to gave making my own dream catcher a try. I was surprised how easy it is once you get the hang of the looping!

To begin, you’ll need two spools of yarn—one thick and wooly, one thin and tightly spun. Take the wooly yarn and wrap it around an embroidery hoop you can find at your local craft store—it doesn’t matter the size. After you’ve covered the wood, knot a loop on one end and create a hanging loop.

To make the “web” of the dream catcher, circle the yarn around the hoop and knot it. Turn the hoop (like a steering wheel) and create another knot 1-2” away from the first. The string should be taught, but not too tight, otherwise it may not lie flat when you’re finished. Repeat all the way around the hoop.

Then, start tying more knots on the first “row” of strings, so the web continues. Don’t tie the knots on previous knots, otherwise you won’t get that woven effect. Just keep telling yourself, “find the centers!”

When you’ve got a 2-3” hole in the center, allow 6-8” of string to hang down from the center and tie a feather or two at the bottom.

Isn't it beautiful!

I wholeheartedly encourage you to look up the symbolism behind these spiritual creations…many dream catchers are woven with a single bead, which represents a spider, or even several beads—all of which carry their own meaning. Some are also made with feathers from noble birds—like eagles. To make yours unique to you and your family, see how you can personalize your dream catcher. A wealth of knowledge is at your fingertips with one Google search!

I hope you’ll join me on Wednesday for our Southwestern-inspired You’re Home with Jill. You can watch it at 7pm ET on QVC Plus or on QVC.com anytime you like.

From my home to yours,
—Jill

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there minutes included with this phone? A: Yes, offer includes 1,200 minutes, 1,200 texts, and 1,200 MB of data with 1 year of service when activated within 60 days.

Q: Exactly how do these minutes work? A: You receive 1,200 minutes to use for talking (incoming and outgoing calls), 1,200 text messages for texting (sent and received) and 1,200 MB of data for web browsing.

Q: Who is the carrier/network provider? A: TracFone.

Q: Is there a model number? A: SA S738C.

Q: How soon do I have to add the minutes? A: You have 60 days from QVC order date to receive the Promotional Airtime PIN from the automated system (1-888-238-0828).

Q: Do I need to activate my phone right away? A: You have 60 days from the QVC order date to activate service using the Promotional Airtime PIN.

Q: Can you use the phone's other features on Wi-Fi without activating the service? A: Certain apps may function on Wi-Fi but not all. Talking and texting will not work solely on Wi-Fi, service must be activated.

Q: If the phone is returned before using all the time purchased, will there be a refund on unused time? A: No, refunds on funds paid to TracFone.

Q: Is a complete owner's manual included? If not, where can it be found? A: No. You may visit TracFone for interactive tutorials: http://tracfone.deviceanywhere.com/tracfone/home.seam? custId=TFSAS738C&locale=en_US

Q: Do you use minutes if you are texting on a Wi-Fi network? A: Yes, while connected to a Wi-Fi access point; you will still be deducted minutes for talking and text messages for texting.

Q: Will it work with Adobe Flash programs? A: No.

Q: Can I move my existing cell phone number to the new phone? A: Yes.

Q: If I move my phone number from a different carrier, will the unexpired minutes transfer? A: Other carrier airtime/minutes will NOT transfer to TracFone.

Q: If I transfer my number from a different Tracfone phone, will the unexpired minutes transfer? A: Yes, certain restrictions may apply. You must keep the existing TracFone number and select "transfer my number and service from one TracFone device to another". Only Pay As you Go or Value Plans TracFone numbers are eligible and the number transfer must be done at time of device activation. Safelink, lifeline, Straight Talk and other TracFone programs may not be eligible to transfer to Android Device or transfer minutes/unused balances. See TracFone for complete details.

Q: Can I transfer my landline phone number to this phone? A: Yes, please allow up to five days for the port to complete. You may be without service during this time. Once the port is completed, your landline phone will cease to operate.

Q: Can you make calls to Canada or Mexico? A: Yes, visit www.tracfone.com/ild for full listing of TracFone's International Destination calling.

Q: Can you use the phone in Canada to call the US? A: No, this phone will not work in other countries/overseas.

Q: Can the phone be used for international calls? A: Yes, visit www.tracfone.com/ild for full listing of TracFone's International Destination calling.

Q: What are the names of the countries you can call? A: Visit www.tracfone.com/ild for full listing of TracFone's International Destination calling.

Q: Can I download Android apps to this phone? A: Yes.

Q: Where do you get the apps? A: Download apps at Google Play Store. You must have a Google/Gmail account to access the Play Store.

Q: Does the phone have speech-to-text capability? A: Yes, press the microphone on the Google Search bar and tell the phone what you would like to do.

Q: How many megapixels does the camera feature? A: 3MP.

Q: Does it have a flash for the camera? A: No.

Q: Is the phone 3G- or 4G-capable? A: 3G.

Q: Is the phone Wi-Fi capable? A: Yes.

Q: Can it be used as a wireless hotspot? A: No.

Q: Are minutes charged if I text where there is Wi-Fi? A: Yes, while connected to a Wi-Fi access point, you will still be deducted minutes for talking and text messages.

Q: Can you watch videos or download music to the phone? A: Yes.

Q: Does it support YouTube video? A: Yes.

Q: Can you get AOL and Yahoo email on this phone? A: Yes.

Q: Can you give different ringtones to different contacts? A: Yes.

Q: Does it have visual voicemail? A: You can download an app for visual voicemail.

Q: Does this have voicemail and caller ID? A: Yes.

Q: Do I get free 911 calls? A: Yes.

Q: Can I send and receive pictures on this? A: Yes.

Q: Can the firmware be updated? If so, how? A: Firmware is currently up to date and any further updates would come directly from Tracfone.

Q: Does it have a GPS app for getting directions? A: Yes.

Q: Does this have Internet access? A: Yes.

Q: Does it require an antivirus program? A: No.

Q: Does it have push-to-talk like a walkie talkie? A: No.

Q: Is there a credit check? A: No.

Q: Do minutes round up or down? A: Round up.

Q: Does billing begin at the start of the ring or at the beginning of the call? A: Beginning of the ring.

Q: Does this one price per month include all taxes and fees? A: This is a pay-as-you-go service, not a monthly service. Purchase TracFone airtime. Taxes and fees are additional.

Q: Are local and long distance calls the same price? A: Yes.

Q: Is mobile-to-landline included? A: You are deducted minutes for any outgoing/incoming call.

Q: How do you activate the phone? A: Follow instructions on the Welcome Guide titled Start Here, enclosed with your shipping package. Call 1-888-238-0828 to receive your Promotional Airtime PIN number. Once you have the Promotional Airtime PIN number, contact TracFone to activate the phone by visiting www.tracfone.com and select Activate Phone. If you call TracFone at 1-800-867-7183, activate through the phone-automated system.

Q: Are there activation fees? A: No.

Q: Do the airtime minutes expire? A: Yes.

Q: Are there termination fees or penalties if I stop using the phone? A: No.

Q: Can I buy airtime for this phone at Walmart, CVS, etc.? A: Yes, you can purchase TracFone Airtime Cards.

Q: Is termination required? A: Termination is not required, but your line and service will be terminated if you do not add service by your designated service end date.

Q: How do I find out which areas will not provide wireless service? A: Please visit the coverage link on QVC.com or contact Tracfone directly to verify coverage in your area.

Q: Will it scan bar codes? A: No.

Q: How do I check my Airtime Balance? A: TracFone has launched their Account Balance App, available for the Android device through the Google Play store.

• Go to the Google Play store (you must have a Gmail account to access the Google Play Store)      
• Search "Tracfone"
• Select the APP called "Tracfone My Account" (the developer will be TracFone)
• Click INSTALL
• ACCEPT the APP permissions
• The TracFone My Account App and Widget will download to your device
• Open the App to view your current Airtime Balance

• Add the TracFone MY Account WIDGET to one of your screens. Click on Update Balance on the widget to receive real time airtime balance information. Click on your MENU button Select the WIDGETS tab at the top Scroll until you find MY ACCOUNT Press and hold the Widget and place on one of your screens.

Q: Can you transfer a contact list from another phone to this phone? A: Contacts can be transferred from another phone via Bluetooth or other third-party apps.

Q: If you transfer minutes from another Tracfone, will they expire at the same time the included Promotional Minutes expire? If not, when would they expire? A: When you add the promotional minutes and service days to your new TracFone Android with an existing minute and service day balance from a previous TracFone, the promotional minutes and service days will be added to your current balances - nothing is erased or overwritten. This is known as TracFone Unlimited Carry Over. This benefit is available anytime you add an Airtime card to your TracFone. You do not need to wait until your service end date to replenish your service since minutes and days are added to your current balance.

Q: Will my existing minute balance triple from my old TracFone Android to my New TracFone Android? A: No, your existing minute and service day balances will transfer "AS IS" to your new TracFone Android device when you transfer your existing TracFone wireless number to you new TracFone. Your promotional minutes and service days will be added to your existing balances with TracFone's Unlimited Carry Over benefit.

Q: TracFone transferred my existing balances to my new TracFone Android. How do I add my Promotional Airtime PIN number I received from the Wireless Center? A: You may add your 15-digit promotional Airtime PIN number in the following ways: visit www.tracfone.com and select ADD AIRTIME then select ADD CARD ONLINE. A pop-up window will appear. Enter your 15-digit Airtime PIN number and your TracFone Wireless Phone number in the appropriate fields. Do not enter anything in "Have a promo code? field. Click on SUBMIT . Or, download the TracFone My Account APP from the Google Play store (this is your airtime display for TracFone Android). Select "Add PIN" from the APP and enter the 15-digit PIN number in the field. If you need further assistance, please contact The Wireless Center, provide your QVC order number, and they can add your PIN for you.

Information provided by TracFone.

Hi, everyone!

The newest episode of You’re Home with Jill airs tomorrow! All of my DIY projects and recipes have a Southwestern flair and I just love everything about this episode because I’m in love with that region of our country. I love the history, the people, the colors, and the incredible décor. On Friday, I shared one craft you’ll see tomorrow, DIY Dream Catchers, which turned out GREAT. (Who knew I could make an authentic dream catcher!?) Here’s the featured recipe you’ll see in tomorrow’s show: Sangria!

Red Wine Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of your favorite red wine (Merlot of Pinot Noir work well)
• 1 (48-oz) bottle of pomegranate-blueberry juice
• 6 oz brandy
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Directions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and let steep for 3 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh basil.

White Wine Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of your favorite white (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works well)
• 1 (48-oz) bottle of Lemonade
• 6 oz Lemoncello liqueur
• 1 cup fresh lemon slices
• 1 cup fresh lime slices
• 1 cup fresh star fruit slices

Directions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and let steep for 3 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Do you recognize him? It’s Phillip Watson from Cottage Farms!? He’ll be stopping by tomorrow to help me with a gardening project. And, I may or may not have talked him into helping me make my sangria!

The sangria-making process can be a beautiful thing…

Because the flavors of the sangria need time to marry, you can’t make this drink on the spot for your guests. But, you can have some sangria already made and chilling in the fridge. This second batch can be a conversation starter and the backup in case your guests are really thirsty!

I’ll see you tomorrow at 7pm ET on QVC Plus or ANYTIME on QVC.com. You can access the video right from our homepage. And, after tomorrow, anytime on the You’re Home with Jillpage.

From my home to yours,
—Jill