Kiddies’ Recipe: Creamy Carrot Mac ‘N’ Cheese

Got picky eaters? Don’t know what to cook?
Day after day, getting your kid to finish up a meal can often times be a challenge. But do you know that your child’s mealtime doesn’t have to be a battle? Not to worry, you’re covered with today’s yummy recipe for kiddies.
Mac ‘n’ Cheese is an all time international crowd pleaser. But here’s a healthy twist to it – the addition of carrots and low fat choice of dairy gives this recipe a healthy punch. With this nutritious tasty pasta, your kid(s) will sure look forward to lunchtime.

Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Let’s cook!
Ingredients:

500g Elbow macaroni (Any other shaped pasta can be used. Animal shaped pasta in particular makes it more fun)
3 medium sized carrots (scraped and washed)
2 Tbsps Butter
1 Tbsp Flour
2 cups Three Crowns milk
200g grated cheese (preferably low-fat)
¼ Tbsp Ground Black pepper
200g Shredded boiled chicken/Sausage (optional)
Salt to taste

Directions
Cook macaroni with a pinch of salt. Drain and set aside.
Puree carrots in a blender. Set it aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, sprinkle in some flour then pour in pureed carrots and cook until bubbly. Pour in the low fat milk and stir continuously till boiling again. Reduce to low heat and slowly whisk in the grated cheese till melted and well incorporated. Cook for about a minute more for thick consistency.
Taste for salt, then sprinkle in some ground black pepper. Finally, pour the macaroni into the creamy carrot mixture, add the shredded chicken/sausage. Combine thoroughly, turn off heat and serve immediately.
If for school lunch, dish into an insulated thermos so your little one can still enjoy it warm at lunch time.
Even a picky eater won’t mind this. Give it a try, won’t you?

Yam Recipe: Spiced Yam Balls

I love yams and never tire of eating them. But just so not to become too monotonous I try cooking yam in diverse ways. This sure works perfectly for my daughter too!
Are there some yam lovers in the house as well? Yams are awesomely nutritious. And contrary to the general belief that they’re fattening and thus should be avoided due to their carb content, yam do pack some healthy punch that will do you a whole lot of good. Like I always say, moderation is the watchword!
Yams are low in sodium, saturated Fat, and cholesterol. They are also an excellent source of Fibre, Vitamins B and C, Potassium, Manganese and Vitamin C.
Let’s make some yam balls!

Ingredients

½ medium sized yam, peeled
2 eggs
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
1 fresh green pepper, diced (optional)
2 fresh ata rodo, diced
½ tsp chilli pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp thyme
½ tsp coriander powder
1 seasoning cube
Salt to taste
Any choice of heart friendly oil for frying

Method
Cut peeled yam into cubes. Place in pot with a pinch of salt and cook till very soft.
Remove from heat, drain water, place in a bowl and mash until very smooth.
Add diced tomatoes, onion, garlic and chilli powders, thyme and yolk from one of the eggs into the mashed yam and mix thoroughly. Scoop a portion of the yam paste and mould into balls till you have them all neatly shaped. Set aside.
Put remaining eggs in another bowl, add a cube of seasoning and mix well. Dip yam balls into egg mixture then roll sparingly in bread crumbs.
Deep fry in hot oil until crispy and golden brown. Remove and place on kitchen towel to soak up excess oil.
Serve with peppered veggie corned beef sauce (my favourite) or any sauce of choice. It can also be served as snacks.
 

Health Benefits of Yam

Ever so often classified as a member of the sweet potato family and usually confused as same, yams differ in botanical groupings. Though wildly consumed and used interchangeably in many recipes, white yams are known as Dioscorea rotundata (family Dioscoreaceae) while sweet potatoes are Ipomoea batatas from the Convolvulaceae family. Their taste sure differs too!
Benefits Of Yams
The presence of the unique phytochemical phytoestrogen in yam makes it a dynamic superfood for women. Phytoestrogens are significant for their effectiveness in lowering risks of breast cancer and osteoporosis. This plus the fact that they’re a good source of vitamin B6 which helps women
essentially in relieving postmenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual cramps and also reduce risks of fibrocystic breast tissues. Vitamin B6 is also used in the cutback of homocysteine, a substance detrimental to blood vessel walls.
Still on the benefits of yam especially in women’s reproductive health, yams are regarded as a good boost for ovulation and fertility (little wonder some culture ensure new brides are well fed on yam).  
Known for the high content of complex carbs contained in them, yams are classified as starchy tuber vegetables and rank low on the glycemic index. As carbs, they are good energy providers. And their complex nature make them slowly digested into the blood thus keeping blood sugar levels even.
They are also an excellent source of dietary fibre which promotes healthy digestion and works effectively in the reduction of bad cholesterol and constipation. Fibre has great positive impact on the bowels and this lowers the risk of colon cancer significantly.

The potassium in yam helps in countering the consequence of high sodium in your body and works in keeping your heart beat as normal as possible. This makes them equally efficient in the control of blood pressure, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. As a source of Vitamin C and Beta carotene.
Yams are loaded with antioxidants and possess also have good anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants help rid your body of free radicals – cancer friendly elements that also cause undue damage to the body.
Protection against lung and oral cavity cancers, while also keeping your skin, eyes and bones healthy – that’s a function of Vitamin A, another nutrient found in yams. That’s not all! More reasons to eat yam? Do so and enjoy nutrients like Iron – an effective immune booster; copper which is helpful in the production of red blood cells and effective blood flow within the body; and Magnesium – a bi-component in the potent antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase.
In some Asian countries (China, Korea, and Japan in particular), yams are effectively put to use as part of Asian traditional medicine due to the presence of the allantion compound in them. When used as a poultice to boils and abscesses, healing process is accelerated.
Going to enjoy a rich yam diet? I bet you do!

How to Get Fit Without Joining a Gym

 People have different reasons why they would not go to a gym even though we all really need the benefits of exercising. I avoid gyms because I am afraid to make the financial commitment and not end up going. It does not help that the really good gyms can be a bit pricey for my financial situation. Some other people have no gyms close by or are shy to exercise in front of people.
I got your back. Here are some ways to get fit without a gym!
Get a Personal Trainer
This may not be cost effective for some people depending on the trainer. I tried this recently and it worked (even though for a few weeks before the lazy bug and excuse train caught up to me). It helps to have a trainer that stays in your neighborhood. You can be flexible with time and you don’t even have to leave the house.
Create your own Boot camp
Boot camp-style workouts are a lot of fun.
Try this circuit: jumping jacks, lunges, high knees, push-ups, triceps dips (off a bench or curb), and sit-ups. Do each exercise for 60 to 90 seconds; rest in between exercises as needed. Repeat the whole thing two or three times.
You can watch these moves online and repeat them. You need good pair of sneakers for this.
Take a Walk and a Run

Walking is an easy way to stay in shape because it requires only a pair of supportive shoes and it is something you can do pretty much anywhere.
 Running burns more calories than almost any other cardio activity, but it can be boring on a treadmill or along the same old neighborhood route. Try different routes as often as possible. Changing up your speed challenges your body so you burn more calories—and it keeps the workout interesting.
P.s – Avoid stray dogs early in the morning and late at night.
Take a Hike (To Get Fit)
Yes hiking is different from walking. Grab some friends, lace up your sneakers, and get your hike on! The scenery and feeling of accomplishment after your hike are so much better than an afternoon at the gym.
How about a road trip? Ever climbed Olumo Rock? Hiked through Lekki Conservation Centre?
Take Advantage of Online Discounts
Visit online sites, there are dance classes, zumba even gym memberships at discounted prices. Put your social media presence to good use; keep your eyes peeled for great fitness deals. Taking advantage of these deals is a great way to try something new and keep your workouts exciting!
Turn Chores into a Workout
Tackling your chores and burning calories at the same time? Talk about killing two birds with one stone! The key to turning your cleaning activities into a workout is focusing on the ones that have the highest calorie burn, like scrubbing the tub or vacuuming. To get yourself in the right mindset, throw on your sneakers and put on some upbeat music. If you want a real challenge, do some push-ups or squats every time a new song starts to play
 

Dream Destination Tokyo

I have become more adventurous these days. I just want to experience everything. Well if not everything, many things. When my finances align, I would love to visit Japan(Tokyo).
Tokyo Trip Requirement
For a Nigerian visiting Japan this is what you’ll need;
1. Passport
2. 1 Visa application form
3. 1 Photo
4. Flight booking confirmation slip
5. Documents to prove ability to pay for travel expenses

A certificate of income or a tax declaration certificate issued by a public agency or
Personal bank statement for last 3 months

6. Schedule of stay or Travel itinerary

Hotel booking etc

7. Letter of employment(original and photocopy)
8. Introduction letter from employer
 
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, mixes the ultramodern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops to cherry trees and temples. The opulent Meiji Shinto Shrine is known for its towering gate and surrounding forests. The Imperial Palace sits amid sprawling public gardens.
Sci-fi Cityscapes

Tokyo’s neon-lit streetscapes still look like a sci-fi film set. Come let’s see the utopian mega-malls, the edgy designer boutiques from Japan’s award-winning architects, and the world’s tallest tower – Tokyo Sky Tree – a twisting spire that draws on ancient building techniques. Stand atop one of Tokyo’s skyscrapers and look out over the city at night to see it blinking like the control panel of a starship, stretching all the way to the horizon.
Eat Your Heart Out

Yes, Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city. Japanese cuisine has been added to the Unesco Intangible Cultural Heritage list. But that’s not what makes dining in Tokyo such an amazing experience. What really counts is the city’s long-standing artisan culture. You can splash out on the best sushi of your life, made by one of the city’s legendary chefs using the freshest ingredients from Tsukiji Market that day.
Fashion & Pop Culture

From giant robots to saucer-eyed school girls to a certain, ubiquitous kitty, Japanese pop culture is a phenomenon that has reached far around the world. Tokyo is the country’s pop culture laboratory, where new trends grow legs. Come see the latest looks bubbling out of the backstreets of Harajuku, the hottest pop stars projected on the giant video screens in Shibuya, or the newest anime and manga flying off the shelves in Akihabara. Or just pop ’round to the nearest convenience store to pick up treats in wacky flavours emblazoned with cute characters.
Festivals and fireworks

It is difficult to travel in Japan during summer and not find yourself caught up in a matsuri (festival) of some sort. In cities and towns across the country, floats are paraded, people get kitted out in their colourful yukata (cotton kimono), food stalls cram the streets, fireworks explode, and the beer and sake flows.
Among the summer big-hitters are Kyoto’s famous Gion Matsuri, which runs for the whole month of July; and Osaka’s Tenjin Matsuri, on 24 and 25 July. In Northern Honshū there are unusual feats of strength – from 3 to 6 August people balance long bamboo poles strung with lanterns on their heads and shoulders for the Akita Kantō Matsuri. On Miyajima there is a centuries-old ceremony of traditional music in boats for Kangen-sai  on 1 August. And on the island of Sado-ga-shima from 21 to 23 August, the Kodō Drummers wow music lovers at the Earth Celebration.
I don’t think one can exhaust all there is to discover in Tokyo on one visit. I definitely want to go.
Any sponsors?

Kids and Knives

I saw this picture on the internet about age appropriate chores for children and i noticed some chores had to do with sharp objects. I tried to remember what age I was when my mother first started trying to teach me how to cook. I was about seven years old when she gave me a tuber of yam to peel. I can tell you that it ended hilariously, I managed to peel the yam but i rubbed it across my skin so much that i was so itchy. I had to shower with disinfectant and even had to take an antihistamine. I learnt a valuable lesson, yam skins and human skins (at least mine) don’t mix.

How do you feel about children (Kids) using knives?
What is the greatest risk — children using knives or children not using knives? Does the risk lie in teaching a child the skills required to use a knife, or is the risk in not allowing a child to use a knife and denying them important life skills?
I think parents can start teaching with a butter knife (or other dull round tipped knife and also vegetable choppers) to cut something soft like a banana.
 As the child gets older, the knife gets sharper and the food gets harder or more difficult to cut. I advocate for real knives and real food, however starting with a soft food and a dull knife allows for the child to develop their skills gradually.
It’s not that I believe children should be doing adult work; it’s that I believe children are capable and for them it can be incredibly empowering. Children need risk. Risk challenges them and keeps them alert; it makes them responsive and teaches consequences. However parents are often so afraid, it is to the detriment of their children.
Children need to learn new skills, real life skills. Once they are capable in one area, they will have the confidence to work and excel in other areas. In the society we find ourselves it is best to equip them for challenges.
If taught with care and patience children can become very capable and skilled. Using a knife can improve hand control. It can build hand and arm strength and fine motor skills.
With the same of amount of attention, they can also learn to use a grater or perhaps even a peeler.
Do you allow your children to use a knife? At what age did you teach them how to use it?
 

The Mistress Handbook

A mistress is a relatively long-term female lover and companion who is not married to her partner, especially when her partner is married.
This is the type of article one should write anonymous but I trust you guys. As a single girl, most of the attention I have received is from unavailable or unsuitable men and if you notice, for those who have this experience is that they are the most caring and very eager to solve your life’s problems whether spiritual, academic or financial.
My advice to ladies out there who are considering taking up the offer of an unavailable man is – DON’T. A marriage is a sacred bond and it shouldn’t be tampered with.
If you are already in that sort of relationship however, there are rules you must observe;
Mistress Rules

You’re a mistress not the wife, know your place!
Mistresses don’t complain. It is the wife’s role.
Even if he tells you he loves you more than his wife, don’t let that get into your head.
Mistresses should not call the man first, wait for him to call.
Be friend his secretary and driver.
Unless your married man is carrying on with his secretary, she can be an invaluable asses in your relations or relationship with him-relations as in sex, relationship as in a working or living arrangement
Mistresses should avoid the wife as much as possible. As much as possible don’t patronize the wife’s beauty parlor, jewelry shop, dress shop.
Be discreet, confide in no one. If you are a known mistress do not divulge details of your relationship.
Have a beard; be publicly linked to another man.
Mistresses should be ready to give up Valentine’s Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Holy Week and his birthday. If he spends any of these days with you, you are doing a fine job.
Don’t fall in love, always look out for yourself.
Resist the urge to shower him with gifts. Evidence, evidence…!
Perish all thought that someday you’ll be No. 1 for your own sanity.
Avoid being seen in public with him. Because it’s forbidden it’s supposed to be hidden plus don’t ruin your chances with single, quality men when you are ready to settle down.
Remind him to pay for everything in cash – dinner, flowers, perfume, champagne, pearls, diamonds, a microwave oven, etc.
In God we trust but pay in cash you must. A broke mistress is a sad tale.
When all else fails, leave him. Well whether it fails or not, the relationship must have a shelf life.

 
 

Go Natural: Skin Therapy Techniques

Dying to have a most-sought after flawless skin? Thinking skin therapy? Well, you should! Amongst many other perks, a clear radiant skin is an all-time striking attribute that boosts self-confidence, and of course a sign of sound health. Interestingly, having a beautiful glowing skin doesn’t have to be through cosmetic surgery/laser resurfacing. You can adequately care for your skin naturally without having to rob a bank.
Sometimes the prolonged use of moisturizers and lotions can take its toll on the skin, and even overall health due to the loaded chemicals in them. Wondering how then to deal with the pimples, or protect against sunburns, acne, and aging? Natural skincare of course! They’re free from long term risks and are a sure way to a healthier vibrant skin. Natural ingredients from your very kitchen can be the ideal therapy for a beautiful soft skin.
Let’s take a look at some easy ones…
Skin Therapy Techniques
Raw Honey-Avocado Moisturizer
Often used on the skin because of its antibacterial and healing properties, raw honey is a healthy source of nutrients and enzymes. And avocados? Refreshingly revitalizing, avocados are great for soothing dry and sensitive skins. A combination of these two ingredients will not only moisturize, it will also soften, cleanse and slow down aging process.

Method: Mash up one de-skinned avocado, mix with a tablespoon of honey and apply on skin. Leave as mask for at least an hour and rinse off with warm water.
Are you prone to acne? Try this Basil Toner. The antiseptic properties in basil help in eradicating acne-causing bacteria while also improving circulation to the skin.
Method: Pour 3 tablespoons of crushed dried basil leaves into a cup of water to boil. Leave mixture to cool then strain out and pour in a spray bottle. Spritz on your skin and gently spread over face and neck with a cotton ball. Do this daily at night after cleansing.
Need natural cleansers? Grapes are loaded with antioxidants and are super healthy for your body. But do you know that grapes have incredible cleansing effects on your skin too? Simply smash some then rub the pulp on your face and neck. Leave on for 15 minutes before rinsing with water. You just stripped your skin of impurities!
Exfoliating regularly rids your face of dry dead skin cells to make it looking younger, smoother and brighter. When next you need to exfoliate, try this Almond-sugar scrub. Sugar is a major source of Glycolic acid, an active compound known to boost new cell production and break down the protein that keeps dead cells hanging onto your skin. A mixture of sugar plus Vitamin E rich Almonds will effectively remove all dead skin cells, nourish your skin and also protect it from the harsh rays of the sun.
Method: Mix a cup of white sugar with ½ cup ground almonds and some of your favourite massage oil (olive, almond, jojoba). Combine thoroughly and apply to dry face in a circular motion. Let sit for 30 minutes and rinse off with warm water. Keep leftover safe in a tight container for future use.

How to Prevent Post Pregnancy Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are unwanted scars that appear on the skin due to sudden changes in body size, and this usually happens during pregnancy, rapid weight gain or loss, and puberty. Development of stretch marks is common among women during and after pregnancy. You might have fine lines mostly in the areas prone to fat accumulation like breast, hips, arms, abdomen, tummy and thighs.
Pregnancy stretch marks form as a natural result of the skin around the abdomen stretching out to accommodate a growing belly. The marks start out as red streaks and turn silvery over time. It is possible to prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks if you act early. Drink water to keep your body well hydrated. During pregnancy, your blood volume is increasing, and you are building a huge water sack for your baby to stay in. Your body has growing demand for hydration. Your skin also needs to be hydrated for optimal skin elasticity.
It is advisable to take 8-12 glasses of water each day and to consume enough Zinc. Zinc deficiency is one reason people are more likely to get stretch marks.  Zinc is a natural trace mineral and one of the most abundant in the body. Zinc is used in the production of collagen and also contains antioxidant properties. Zinc is found in foods like chicken, lamb, beef, eggs, nuts, legumes and whole grains.
Eat a balanced and nutritious diet that is rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, silica, and other nutrients to nourish your skin. Vitamin C, in particular, is essential for regenerating connective tissue. Expectant mothers often are advised to use castor oil to prevent stretch marks. Castor oil has been used for ages to prevent and reduce fine lines, wrinkles, spots, blemishes, and other skin problems. Here’s how you use it:

Castor oil(Stretch Marks)
Apply a thick layer of castor oil on your skin.
Wrap the area with plastic wrap or saran wrap
Apply heat with a heating pad or hot water bottle for at least 20 minutes
Repeat the process daily or several times a week  
If you wish to thin the oil, combine one tablespoon of castor oil with two tablespoons of sweet almond oil and then apply the mixture. 

Tall Girls’ Guide to Looking Fabulous

Women have different unique shapes and sizes, tall and slim, tall and curvy, average and thin, petite and curvy, small and slim. Each figure is beautiful in its way, all you need is the perfect outfit for your body type.What fits your friend may not look good on you. For example, what looks good on your friend who is a slim hourglass may not suit you if you are a plus sized apple shape.  
How to Style Your Tall Frame

Just like small women out there, tall women come in different shapes and sizes as well. You can be tall and lean, tall and curvy, apple shaped, pear shaped, tall and short-waisted, tall and long-waisted and so on.Tall women should learn to love their height. It is what makes you beautiful and unique. You can pull off any outfit with the right confidence and posture.Don’t be shy, Flaunt your legs!          
Most tall women have beautiful legs. Tall women should not shy away from wearing short dresses and heels. It is sexy!
Show off your curves in a classy manner. Wear well-fitted clothing. This does not mean tight clothing. Well-fitted clothing means clothing that suits your shape and size at all the right place and is comfortable. Ill-fitting clothes are for example sleeves that are too long and tops and pants that look like they have shrunk. Avoid everything that is in the wrong position on your body. Ill-fitting clothes will make you look weird, out of place and will not flatter your curves.
Stay Away from Monochromatic Outfits: To avoid looking endlessly tall, avoid monochromatic (single hue colour) clothing. Wear different colour top and different colour bottom to create a break off your height. The horizontal line break will make you appear shorter.
Show off your long neck. When getting ready for a night out, your long expanse of neck and your new décolletage are assets you should not forget to flaunt. Wear interesting necklines, pull your hair back and wear necklaces or large earrings that attract the eye.
 Avoid looking too big. To avoid looking “big,” make sure you only wear one oversized item at a time. You can wear wide-legged pants with a tight top, or pair an oversized jacket with skinny jeans.
Don’t shy away from skinny jeans. Skinny jeans are the perfect opportunity for tall women to show off their gorgeous body. Don’t think about the length. It is okay if they are a little short, well better for flaunting your shoes.  A turn up is really in at the moment so roll over the hem by about an inch or two and make sure your footwear is flaunt-worthy.

Nobody can rock a maxi dress like a tall woman. No matter how much average and short people try, they just can’t pull off a killer maxi dress the way tall women do. Make friends with a maxi dress.   Skirts are good outfits for most tall girls. If you are looking to choose the right dress for yourself then just remember to try all sorts of clothes in order to find the best one for your personality. Mostly, high waisted skirts are the best option. Belts can also be helpful to highlight your best body parts.
Being a tall woman is truly one of the best gifts you can get, its what makes you unique, beautiful and stand out in any crowd. If you are tall, all you need is the right attitude, posture and you can pull off any outfit confidently.