Teaching Kids about Money

The banking industry isn’t making it easy to teach your child to be a saver. My son’s savings account earned less than a quarter in interest last year: $.20 to be exact. “Pathetic,” was his response.  And he’s right. But that started a family discussion about why we save and how to keep money safe, […]

Lemon Drop Martini Recipe

We’re done with the Cosmo and Appletini. At your next girls’ night in, serve Lemon Drops. They’re super easy to put together, and you don’t need any exotic ingredients. More importantly, they’re delicious! If any drink can stop the automatic, “I’ll have a glass of white wine,” the Lemon Drop is it. Lemon Drop Martini […]

Grill Gifts that Earn Grins

My father-in-law is a proud owner of a singing fish plaque. My husband periodically wears his Mickey Mouse golf tie, which thrills our children. I still consider “Real Men Change Diapers” to be a classic T-shirt slogan.   When it come to Father’s Day gifts, anything goes. In the tradition of wacky and tacky, here […]

Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Pitas

Most families have a hell day. Each kid is going in a different direction, and dinner isn’t going to be a sit-down meal…unless everyone’s willing to eat late and tolerate cranky kids. But if you pack a cooler with these appetizer-inspired sandwiches, dinner can be enjoyed on the sidelines (call it a tailgate picnic) while […]

Black Bean Burger Recipe Inspired by Cafe Too

This vegetarian entree is Cafe Too’s biggest seller and a snap to put together. It has a long ingredient list, but they’re easy to find and give the beans a zippy-but-kid-friendly flavor. Black Bean Burger Makes 4-6 patties Active time: 30 minutes Total time: 2-3 hours Ingredients 3 cups canned black beans, rinsed and drained […]

Sweet Italian Sausages with Hash Browns

My friend Mimi Rodman suggested this recipe. It turns Italian sausages into a meal and, best of all, only dirties one pan. The hash browns were a huge hit and totally easy to make. Sweet Italian Sausages with Hash Browns Serves: 4 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Ingredients 4 Italian sausages 1 […]

Go Green By Eating Greens

If you’re interested in eating locally grown fruits and vegetables, but don’t have the time or space to start your own tomato patch, think about buying a share in a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). A CSA is a relationship between you and a farm. You purchase a share before the growing season begins. Once that […]

If You Suspect Your Child May Have An Eating Disorder

Your daughter is perfect. She’s smart, funny, and has friends. At her demanding North Shore high school, she’s taking advanced classes and getting great grades.   She’s also an athlete and active volunteer. Really, quite accomplished. Except lately, you’re starting to get a parent vibe that maybe perfection is taking a toll on your child. […]

Two Dip Recipes for Backyard Entertaining

Here are two dips that are perfect for backyard entertaining. A little exotic, but not too crazy different, and both are a snap to make. Roasted Red Pepper Dip Recipe Serves: 8-12 as part of a party spread Prep Time: 10 minutes 1 jar roasted red peppers (12 ounce) 1 small shallot 1 tbsp. extra-virgin […]

Beer Can Chicken Recipe

  Any recipe that asks you to “open a can of beer and drink half” deserves a place on the menu for Father’s Day. Steven Raichlen, author of The Barbecue! Bible, made the Beer Can Chicken famous. Famous Beer Can Chicken Serves: 4-6 Prep Time: 30 Cook Time: 1 hr. Ingredients 1 chicken (3-1/2 to […]