Monday, December 29, 2008

Sunday, December 28, 2008

Artfire

Now you can find me and my "sweet treats" at:
http://SweetTreatMaryann.artfire.com
Come on by and check out what all the buzz is about....

Monday, December 15, 2008

New Site Worth Checking Out

if you're an animal lover like me, please click to help feed shelter animals....it's FREE
www.animalrescuesite.com

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Spinach Artichoke Dip

this is one of my favorites on game day~this healthy version brought to you courtesy of Sprouts Farmers Market

1 cup nonfat plain yogurt
9 ounces baby spinach leaves
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella
2 TB canola mayonnaise
2 cloves crushed garlic
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1 14 oz can quartered artichokes hearts (drained)
2 TB grated parmesan cheese

Place yogurt in a fine sieve over a medium bowl. Cover and refridgerate. Let drain for an hour.

Preheat oven to 350. Fit a steamer basket in a large pot with 1-2 inches of water and add spinach. Bring to a boil and steam spinach until lightly wilted. Transfer to a colander and let cool. Wring out excess water.

Place spinach in food processor, add drained yogurt, 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, mozzarella,mayonnaise,garlic,salt,pepper,and hot sauce.Process until coarsely blended. Add artichoke hearts and pulse until a chunky mixture forms.

Place mixture in a 1 QT baking dish and sprinkle with 2 TB parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and lightly browned, about 35 minutes. Enjoy with your favorite crackers or veggies!

Saturday, December 6, 2008

New Addition~Cherry Chip Truffles


this one is inspired by my Mom who loves chocolate covered cherries
Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann


Monday, December 1, 2008

Some Rules for Being Happy

IT'S YOUR LIFE: HOW TO BE HAPPY 1.Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.

3. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, 'My purpose today is to __________. I am thankful for______________'

4. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.This one will make your body happy.

5. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli , almonds & walnuts.

6. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

7. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.

8. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.

9.. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

10. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

11. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

12. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

13. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

14. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

15. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

16. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'

17. Forgive everyone for everything.

18. What other people think of you is none of your business.

19. GOD heals everything.

20. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..

21. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch!!!

22. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

23. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: I am thankful for __________. Today I accomplished _________.

24. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

Fully embracing number 15,
Maryann

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Black Friday Special

Stop on in to Sweet Treats by Maryann on Black Friday to satisfy your sweet tooth and save 25%**
This offer is good on orders received on Friday, November 28th only...so hurry in and get your Christmas yummies before they are back to regular price.
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com
**Before shipping

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Marrying a Boston Girl

this one was sent to me by my Dad; he knows me well LOL
You can take the girl out of Boston but you can't take the "Boston" out of the girl

Marrying A Boston Girl

Three men were sitting together bragging about how they had given their
new wives duties.

The first man had married a woman from Louisiana and bragged he had told
his wife she was going to do all the dishes and house cleaning. He said it
took a couple days but on the third day he came home to a clean house and
the dishes were done.

The second man had married a woman from Florida. He bragged he had given
his wife orders that she was to do all the cleaning, dishes and the
cooking. On the first day he didn't see any results, but the next day it
was better. By the third day, his house was clean, the dishes were done
and he had a huge dinner on the table.

The third man married a girl from Boston. He told her that her duties were
to keep the house clean, dishes washed, lawn mowed, laundry washed and hot
meals on the table for every meal. He said the first day he didn't see
anything, the second day he didn't see anything but by the third day most
of the swelling had gone down and he could see a little out of his left
eye; enough to fix himself a bite to eat, load the dishwasher and
telephone a landscaper.

Gotta love those Boston girls ....

Maryann

Monday, November 24, 2008

Eggnog Coffee


*Recipe courtesy of Kraftfoods.com


Makes:4 servings, about 1 cup each
What You Need
1/4 cup ground MAXWELL HOUSE Coffee, any variety
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
2 Tbsp. sugar
2-1/2 cups cold water
1 cup eggnog, warmed
1/2 cup thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping

PLACE coffee in filter in brew basket of coffee maker; sprinkle with nutmeg. Place sugar in empty pot of coffee maker. Add water to coffee maker; brew. When brewing is complete, stir in eggnog.
POUR into 4 cups; top with whipped topping.

Today's Funny

GOD CREATED CHILDREN (AND IN THE PROCESS GRANDCHILDREN)
To those of us who have children in our lives, whether they are our own,grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or students... here is something to make you chuckle. Whenever your children are out of control, you can take comfort from the thought that even God's omnipotence did not extend to His own children.
After creating heaven and earth, God created Adam and Eve. And the first thing he said was ' DON'T !'
'Don 't what ? ' Adam replied.
'Don't eat the forbidden fruit' God said
'Forbidden fruit ? We have forbidden fruit ?
Hey Eve..we have forbidden fruit ! '
' No Way ! '
'Yes way ! '
'Do NOT eat the fruit ! ' said God. 'W
hy ? '
'Because I am your Father and I said so !' God replied, wondering why He hadn't stopped creation after making the elephants.
A few minutes later, God saw His children having an apple break and He was ticked !
'Didn't I tell you not to eat the fruit ? ' God asked.
'Uh huh,' Adam replied.
'Then why did you ?' said the Father.
'I don't know,' said Eve.
'She started it! ' Adam said.
'Did not ! '
'Did too ! '
'DID NOT ! '
Having had it with the two of them, God's punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their own. Thus the pattern was set and it has never changed. If you have persistently and lovingly tried to give children wisdom and they haven't taken it, don't be hard on yourself. If God had trouble raising children, what makes you think it would be a piece of cake for you ?
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT !
1. You spend the first two years of their life teaching them to walk andtalk, then the next sixteen telling them to sit down and shut up.
2. Grandchildren are God's reward for not killing your own children.
3. Mothers of teens now know why some animals eat their young.
4. Children seldom misquote you. In fact, they usually repeat word for word what you shouldn't have said
5. The main purpose of holding children's parties is to remind yourself that there are children more awful than your own
6. We childproofed our homes, but they are still getting in.

ADVICE FOR THE DAY: Be nice to your kids. They will choose your nursing home one day

AND FINALLY: IF YOU HAVE A LOT OF TENSION AND YOU GET A HEADACHE, DO WHAT IT SAYS ON THE ASPIRIN BOTTLE: 'TAKE TWO ASPIRIN' AND 'KEEP AWAY FROM CHILDREN'!!!!!

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Work at Home Mom's Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza

Enter the Holiday Giveaway Extravaganza, sponsored by Moms United in Business LLC, http://www.momsunitedinbusiness.com celebrating the launch of Resources for Work at Home Moms, http://resourcesforworkathomemoms.com! Come celebrate with us, and enter for your chance to win an awesome prize package, just in time for the holidays! Over $800.00 in prizes! You will NOT want to miss this! Enter at http://tinyurl.com/5b7hvm

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Let's Get Personal

So here it is all laid out on the table. Did a "Bare it all" Wednesday; probably more info than you ever really wanted to know about me ;O)

I was asked by some of my fellow Team EEAT members:
OK......Did you go to college??? If you did where, did you live there etc.....if not what did you do instead?

I did not go to college. I WAS offered a job with GE as an Accounts Payable clerk upon graduation but thought, I can't spend my life behind a desk doing paperwork so I stayed at my job at a card and gift store until I met my husband and moved out of state. PS I loved that job because my boss let me have free rein when it came to making up gift baskets and all sorts of creative endeavors.

How did you get started with your goodies? When did you start on Etsy, and how did you find about it?

I can't remember how I found out about Etsy but I was a buyer on Etsy long before I opened my shop in April 2008. Three years ago I sent my husband in to work with my peanut butter cups, everyone raved about them and I took local orders for my treats around the holidays. Helped save my sanity considering I had been a stay at home Mom for over eight years at the time. It has evolved into something that I absolutely love to do. Food is love.

Who are your 3 favorite etsy shops? There's so many good ones out there and I love hearing about them!

This one was really hard because there are so many great shops on Etsy but I narrowed it down to these three (for this week LOL):

carrymeaway~she made a fabulous tote for my mother in law and she shares my goal in getting rid of all those nasty plastic bags

PaulZozem~if you are looking for sterling silver jewelry he's your man, I've got a beautiful wedding band on my finger that he custom made for me

sweetpicklespottery~LOVE her pottery, 'nuff said

Whats your favorite treat that you make and why?

my favorite treat is the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles, these things are truly addictive and have added a couple of inches to my waistline since I started making them Why do I like making them~cause I can eat any left overs ;O)

Anything else you'd like to ask fire away; I'm an open book.....
Maryann

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas Around Here




My kitchen looks like Willy Wonka's chocolate factory right about now :O)

Here's a couple of new items that I've added just in time for the holidays.

You can find them here: http://sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com


Snowballs~marshmallows, white chocolate and coconut

Candy Cane Oreos~these will only be in production through Christmas so get yours soon before they're gone

Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com

Friday, November 14, 2008

Team EEAT Presents a HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY!




Who wouldn't want free goodies for the holidays! Now, just in time for Christmas, Team EEAT is giving away 2 $10 gift certificates!

The giveaway starts November 17th, and runs to December 5th! The winner will be notified, and will have 5 days to pick their prize! Your goodies will arrive just in time for Christmas!

How to Play!

Each of the following team members has hidden a picture of a CANDY CANE (above) in their shop, item descriptions! Go searching, find the links to 3 hidden Candy Canes in 3 different shops, and email them to teameeat@gmail.com. The winner will be picked on DECEMBER 5TH!

Other ways to enter:
* Blog about our contest, including a link back to our site.
* Sign up for our Mailing list!

That's it! Good luck on your hunt!

Participating team shops:

Double Dipped Sweets

Sweet Treat Maryann

ASugarAffair

A Thyme To Bee Comforted

Just Bakin'

Delectable Delights

CiaoHound

Have it Confections

Vermont Maple

Team EAT Blog: http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Now Accepting Pre-Orders for Christmas Delivery


Just an FYI, I am currently accepting orders for Christmas. You can save 10% by placing your order now and leaving me a note to seller at checkout telling me when you need your order to arrive by.
I am happy to include a gift card with message and send directly to your recipient.

Place your order as usual and wait for a revised invoice before paying. Offer good until Thanksgiving.

Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Christmas Giveaway



Team EEAT Christmas Giveaway


Description
This is my item for Team EEAT's Christmas giveaway. If you are the winner I will ship to you: a winter themed bowl filled with white chocolate truffles(4),milk chocolate covered pretzels(6) and my original peanut butter cups(4)

The ceramic bowl has snowmen and snowflakes on it, perfect for all winter holidays.

Stop by the Team EEAT for more details:
http://etsyedibleartsteam.blogspot.com/

Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
http://sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Sharing One of My Favorite Sites

looking for fun and easy recipes come check out:
www.kraftfoods.com
You can even download coupons too.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Another FFF on Etsy

**This Friday October 17th Team EEAT will be holding yet another Friday Food Fest. Stop in the Etsy chat rooms at 8 pm EST for lots of fun, games, prizes and great deals.
My FFF Special:
BOGO~Buy one at regular price get the second of equal or lesser value for half off. Buyer to pay shipping. Please leave a note to seller FFF and wait for a revised invoice before paying.

Hope to "see" you there.
Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com

Sunday, October 12, 2008

On Sale at Sweet Treats by Maryann




sweettreatmaryann's Shop Announcement
**On Sale This Week~TRUFFLES!Prices reflect 20% off original price. Offer good until 10/16**

Friday, October 10, 2008

Dabbling in the Kitchen Again




People laugh when I tell them that I come up with ideas when I am in the shower, true story.


My mind goes 24 hours a day; so much so that I should be a walking advertisement for Ambien LOL


Truth be told there has been many a day when I have put off the necessary laundry washing just to play in the kitchen.


I have so many ideas going through my head that when they hit I literally stop everything that I am doing,go to my journal and write it down; I have been known to pull over while driving to find a scrap piece of paper to write down my latest creation.


Then comes the fun part. I block off my kitchen,clean and sanitize it and start experimenting like a mad scientist:O) Not everything I've thought of works out.....but that's the best part. My kitchen is my playground. It is my favorite place to be and I love the fact that I am passing down my love for cooking and food down to my children. Each of them have their own favorite thing to cook and my oldest son even wants to go to culinary school....makes a mama proud!


This morning I whipped up something else and I hope you'll come by to check it out.


These are my peanut butter truffles. We couldn't agree if they should be peanut butter/peanut butter truffles or peanut butter/chocolate truffles, so I made both.
My personal favorite combination is the PB/PB....you can decide for yourself.
Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
http://www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com/

Friday, October 3, 2008

Au Naturel Glow's October Special

Au Naturel Exclusive Mineral Powders on SALE.

Prices start from $4

Sale ends October 31st 2008

Go direct to Exclusive Mineral Powders

If you've always wanted to try mineral make-up, now is the time! With prices this low you can't go wrong.

Maryann Richards ANG Consultant #200717

www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Come Visit Me

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Helpful Tips

This is something I thought might be helpful, enjoy!
DID YOU KNOW . . . . ?

Peel a banana from the bottom and you won't have to pick the little 'stringy
things' off of it. That's how the primates do it.



Separate your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you

leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.

Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh much
longer and not mold!


Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating.
Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.


To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls of
sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat them up.


For a cool brownie treat, make brownies as directed. Melt Andes mints in
double broiler and pour over warm brownies. Let set for a wonderful minty
frosting.


Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic and
at the end of the recipe if your want a stronger taste of garlic.

Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the
grease away from the meat while cooking.


Leftover snickers bars from Halloween make a delicious dessert. Simply
chop them up with the food chopper. Peel, core and slice a few apples. Place
them in a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples.
Bake at 350 for 15 minutes!!! Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream. Yummm!


Reheat Pizza

Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove, set heat
to med-low and heat till warm.
This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the cooking
channel and it really works.


Easy Deviled Eggs

Put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal, mash till they are all broken
up. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing
thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy, squeeze mixture into egg Just throw bag away
when done easy clean up.

Expanding Frosting

When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store, whip it with your
mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more
cake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per
serving.


Reheating refrigerated bread

To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in
a microwave with a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food
moist and help it reheat faster.


Newspaper weeds away

Start putting in your plants, work the nutrients in your soil. Wet
newspapers, put layers around the plants overlapping as you go cover with mulch and
forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic they will not
get through wet newspapers.


Broken Glass

Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you
can't see easily.


No More Mosquitoes

Place a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.



Squirrel Away!

To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayenne
pepper. The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won't
come near it.


Flexible vacuum To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge
add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can
be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

Reducing Static Cling Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and
you will not have a clingy skirt or dress. Same thing works with slacks that
cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and ... ta da! ...
static is gone.

Measuring Cups Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill
with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your
ingredient, such as peanut butter, and watch how easily it comes right out.


Foggy Windshield?

Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box
of your car . When the window s fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than
a cloth!


Reopening envelope
If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something
inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two.
Viola! It unseals easily.



Conditioner

Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving
cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the
conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.



Goodbye Fruit Flies
To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2' with Apple
Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find
those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!


Get Rid of Ants

Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,'
can't digest it so it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it
rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small
children being harmed!

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Team EEAT's October Bake Sale


TEAM EEAT is having a Bake Sale October 1-4th. Come on by and check out all the great "yummies" from EEAT members. Lots of sales and fabulous deals. Type in Team EEAT to find more Etsy members......Are you drooling yet?

My Bake Sale Special~ FREE Sampler Pack with Every Order from October 1-4th! which will include some of my best~sellers:a toffee PB cup,s'more marshmallow and a chocolate covered pretzel

Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com

~Have you discovered Etsy yet?

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Great Moms

To All Women.....
FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO PLAN TO BE GREAT MOMS,

THOSE OF YOU WHO ARE GREAT MOMS,


THOSE WHO HAVE GREAT MOMS,


AND THOSE OF YOU WHO HAD GREAT MOMS...


Real Mothers don't eat quiche; they don't have time to make it.


Real Mothers know that their kitchen utensils are probably in the sandbox.


Real Mothers often have sticky floors, filthy ovens and happy kids.


Real Mothers know that dried play dough doesn't come out of shag carpets.


Real Mothers don't want to know what the vacuum just sucked up.


Real Mothers sometimes ask 'Why me?' and get their answer when a little

voice says, 'Because I love you best.'

Real Mothers know that a child's growth is not measured by height or

years or grade... It is marked by the progression of Mommy to Mom to Momma

or

Mother...

4 YEARS OF AGE - My Mommy can do anything!

8 YEARS OF AGE - My Mom knows a lot! A whole lot!

12 YEARS OF AGE - My Mother doesn't really know quite everything.

14 YEARS OF AGE - Naturally, Mother doesn't know that, either.

16 YEARS OF AGE - Mother? She's hopelessly old-fashioned.

18 YEARS OF AGE - That old woman? She's way out of date!

25 YEARS OF AGE - Well, she might know a little bit about it.

35 YEARS OF AGE - Before we decide, let's get Mom's opinion.

45 YEARS OF AGE - Wonder what Mom would have thought about it?

65 YEARS OF AGE - Wish I could talk it over with Mom.

The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that

she carries, or the way she combs her hair. The beauty of a woman must be

seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, the place

where love resides. The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mole, but

true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she

lovingly gives, the passion that she shows, and the beauty of a woman with

passing years only grows!

Thursday, September 11, 2008

There's a New Baby in Our Family



Her name is Trixie and she is one silly puppy. She's always "talking" to us. She's a typical Lab pup getting into everything.

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

The Great NieNie Bakesale

I will be participating in the Great NieNie Bakesale on September 22nd.
Along with many other very talented women, we will be trying to raise funds for the Nielson family's medical and recovery bills. Bidding starts at $20 for a dozen cookies and all proceeds will go directly to the family to help defer some of their medical bills. You can read more about the Nielson family here: http://cjanerun.com
Here is the starting line up so far:
Chocolate Chip Cookies (Landra Lynn - Moi!)
Peanut Butter Cookies (Landra Lynn - Moi!)
Snickerdoodles (Landra Lynn - Moi!)
Homemade Vanilla Marshmellows (Micki - Keeping It Simply Sweet)
Homemade Chocolate Marshmellows (Micki - Keeping It Simply Sweet)
Homemade Mocha Marshmellows (Micki - Keeping It Simply Sweet)
Scottish Shortbread (Vanessa Cengic - Bears Baked Goods)
Snowballs (Vanessa Cengic - Bears Baked Goods)
Ginger Snaps (Vanessa Cengic - Bears Baked Goods)
Award Winning Mini Almond Puff Cookie Dozen 1 (Christy - Groovy Cookies)
Award Winning Mini Almond Puff Cookie Dozen 2 (Christy - Groovy Cookies)
Award Winning Mini Almond Puff Cookie Dozen 3 (Christy - Groovy Cookies)
Award Winning Chocolate Puff Cookie Dozen 1 (Christy - Groovy Cookies)
Award Winning Chocolate Puff Cookie Dozen 2 (Christy - Groovy Cookies)
Award Winning Chocolate Puff Cookie Dozen 3 (Christy - Groovy Cookies)
Chocolate Dipped Oreos With Peppermint (Maryann - Sweet Treats by Maryann)

You know they all sound yummy....so don't forget to bookmark your calendars and come by to help us raise funds and get some treats to boot!
More details to follow
Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

The Etsy Moms are Having a Trunk Show



Please stop by and show your support for all the wonderfully creative Moms on Etsy Thursday September 4 at 7 pm EST in the Etsy Virtual Labs.

Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com

Celebrate au Naturel Glow's 2nd Anniversary

ALL orders placed from now until September 10th will receive a FREE gift (to be decided upon by the home office)

in addition to that Au Naturel Glow is offering their clients 10% off their orders this month; use code client10 out to receive your discount!

Just added this week: EYE~LINING PENCILS


Please put my name in as referring consultant.

Maryann Richards
ANG Consultant #200717
www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Come Join Us for FREE Until September 14th

are you a Mom who runs her own business~Here's a fabulous organization that provides support both personally and professionally. Come join me and hundreds of other women business owners ; it's FREE until September 14th! Tell 'em Maryann Richards sent you.


Visit Moms United in Business

Friday, August 29, 2008

Gift Giving Idea from Watkins

The holidays will be here before you know it. Here's an idea for all those special people on your list.
Stock up for teacher's gifts, stocking stuffers, mail carriers, neighbors and more. I'm pairing mine up with a coffee mug and chocolate dipped spoon; wrap in cellophane and you're ready to go!

Raspberry Truffle Hot Cocoa Mix (Limited Edition)Article No. 05203
Our richest flavored cocoa yet! Perfect for cuddling up by the fire or relaxing after the holiday meal.
US $4.99 (promotional pricing)

**Also comes in Peppermint Stick and White Chocolate Almond
Maryann Richards Watkins Associate #378762
www.watkinsonline.com

Monday, August 25, 2008

New Items Added

Swing by Sweet Treats by Maryann to see all the new items that I've been adding including:

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles
Maryann

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Featured Product of the Week

Have you experienced the all natural difference of mineral mascara yet?

#246 Ebony Mascara
Naturel Mascara smooth and feather like will build lashes without clumping!
Ebony black will set your eyes apart..Only the best for Au Naturel Glow a simply amazing mascara.
Rich with wonderful ingredients! Paraben FREE Preservative.No smudging. Water resistant, NOT water proof.
Washes off with soap and water.Great for delicate eyes and women who wear contact lenses.Apply one coat for the natural look.Simple to apply a second coat without dragging delicate lashes!
ingredients:distilled water, vegetable glycerin, vitamin e, organic gum arabic, e wax, candelilla wax, bees wax , carnauba wax, vegetable stearic acid, jojoba aqua, phenoxyethanol.
Oxides eg black brown etc may contain mica & titanium dioxide.




Our Price: $14.50
Found here: www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

Friday, August 15, 2008

Have YOU Tried Watkins Cinnamon Yet?

Here's some useful information on Watkins world famous cinnamon

WATKINS PUREST GROUND CINNAMON BACKGROUND:
------------WATKINS PUREST GROUND CINNAMON was introduced to the product line in 1895. The entire 20-40 foot Cassia evergreen tree has a cinnamon flavor, but only the first-quality bark from young shoots is used for Watkins Cinnamon. On each shoot there are many different qualities of cinnamon and Watkins painstakingly picks the finest. Ours has 3 to 3.5% essential oil where many others are 2% or less. Did you know that Watkins Cinnamon is the ONLY cinnamon allowed by the FDA to be labelled "Purest Ground"?
Cinnamon was once so highly-prized that wars were fought over it. During the 1st century AD it was 15 times more expensive than Silver. If that were still the case, it would make our 6 oz tin sell for $1,089! It was also believed to have aphrodisiacal powers.
For centuries, the source of cinnamon was a closely guarded secret. Some people say that the search for cinnamon indirectly led to the discovery of America.

HEALTH:-------Recent studies reported in the journal, Diabetes Care, have shown that just 1/4 tsp of cinnamon every day may help to lower blood sugar, fats and cholesterol by up to 30 percent in those with type 2 diabetes. Researchers suggest it may also stave off the onset of type 2 diabetes in those at risk. Study author Dr. Richard A. Anderson of the Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center in Maryland noted that diabetics could add a dash of cinnamon to their morning servings of coffee, orange juice or cereal. Anderson and his team found that all cinnamon-takers experienced a drop in blood levels of glucose, fats and cholesterol by up to 30 percent. No change was seen in the people taking placebo. Currently, only cassia cinnamon (such as Watkins Cinnamon) has been shown to affect blood sugar in humans.
-----Cinnamon helps to reduce the bleeding and stinging of a minor cut, and may help to speed healing. To get the best result, wash the cut thoroughly, pat dry and sprinkle with powdered cinnamon before bandaging.
-----Ginger-Cinnamon tea can help to relieve the discomfort associated with nausea and diarrhea. Mix 1 tsp Watkins Cinnamon and 1/4 tsp Watkins Ginger to 1 cup boiling water and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink.

USAGE:------Try Watkins Purest Ground Cinnamon every day on cereal, oatmeal, toast, in french toast or pancake batter, apples, apple sauce, and savory dishes.

-----Place in coffee grounds before brewing for rich flavor and aroma.

-----If you buy cinnamon pastries from the bakery or grocery store, sprinkle Watkins Cinnamon on it to make it taste soooo much better! None of the commercially used cinnamons can hold a candle to the flavor of ours, so you'll improve those products manyfold by adding our cinnamon.-

----Adding Watkins Cinnamon to a bowl of vanilla ice cream make an amazingly good bowl of cinnamon ice cream. I use Bluebell Homemade Vanilla and add enough Watkins Cinnamon to change the color to a nice light tan color and it's delicious!

-----For a quick taste treat, marinate strawberries in orange juice and sprinkle with a dash of Watkins Cinnamon.

-----Combine 1 tablespoon Watkins Cinnamon with ½ cup honey and ½ cup softened butter. Use as a spread on rolls, biscuits, pancakes, or waffles.

You can find Watkins Cinnamon here: http://www.watkinsonline.com/

Maryann Richards
Watkins Associate #378762

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Looking for Your Ideas

I thought I would change things up a bit......

I'm looking for ideas for "Sweet Treats".So get out your thinking caps and think of a yummy treat that you would like to see added to the Sweet Treats by Maryann line. If I add your idea to my products I'll send it to you FREE to try out; all I ask is that you send me a review that I can post to my blog :O) I will leave this contest open until Labor Day.


PS~ Don't forget to leave me your email so I can contact you if you are the winner.

Maryann

Sweet Treats by Maryann

Monday, August 11, 2008

New to Sweet Treats by Maryann




So I was inspired today and spent the day in the kitchen.


Got some new treats to share with everyone Graham Sandwiches and Toffee Pretzels

Come on by and see what else I love to get my hands into. http://www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com/
Maryann

Au Naturel Glow is Turning 2 Years Old!

Au Naturel Glow is gearing up for a celebration! Stop on in during September to take advantage of great sales and more. More details to follow.....
Maryann
www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

New from Watkins~Lip Tints!

New—Berry Charming Lip Tint
Article No. 20223
All the benefits of our 100% natural beeswax lip balm, with a hint of color!

Naturally flavored with pure peppermint oil(2.55g/0.09 oz.)
US $4.99

*Also comes in Simply Mauve-lous
Strike a Rose
and Tickled Pink

Found under Lip Care here: www.watkinsonline.com

~Please put my name and associate number in at check out


Maryann Richards
Watkins Associate #378762

Just Added to the Au Naturel Glow Line

Get yours before it's sold out~available for a limited time



#318 Chardonnay & Cool Ginger Soap


Chardonnay & Cool Ginger Cleansing Soap.Refreshing for bath time bliss...We've added white wine to our blend of coconut, palm, castor, and safflower oils with a touch of Shea butter. Our Chardonnay Wine Soap is a large bar, with the fruitiness of a Chardonnay wine and hints of Ginger, Lemon, Lime and Nutmeg.Totally divine for total cleansing.




Our Price: $7.00 Units: 5oz
Found here : www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

Maryann Richards
ANG Consultant #200717

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Added Some New "Goodies"

come on by and check it out....more to come
www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com
Maryann
Sweet Treats by Maryann

Helpful Organizing Tips

Got piles of laundry like me? Here's one that I've been using for a while: I have given each of my children their own laundry baskets~2 each, one for dirty clothes they keep in their bedrooms and one left down in the laundry room for clean clothes as they come out of the dryer.
On laundry days they all bring their dirty clothes into the main hamper and my oldest brings it down to me in the laundry room. When the clothes come out of the dryer I place them in each of their "clean" baskets and their job is to bring them upstairs and put them away.
Another life saver for me is an item that I bought called a "sock-sak" for placing dirty socks in. You can put these right into the washer and dryer. Saves me a ton of time trying to match up everyone's socks. Found here: http://sock-sacks.net


Have trouble getting your kids ready for school in the morning, use a kitchen timer (I use the one on my oven) Set a specific time and notify your kids that when the timer goes off it is time to go. I give mine a warning about five minutes before it goes off. You'd be amazed at how quickly them move when they know you are going to leave without them :O)
Another helpful tip in the same vein, set out all clothing the night before; this avoids the "I have nothing to wear" fight.

Eliminate piles of stuff that seem to grow by the front door: you can find inexpensive plastic bins at virtually every large department store, assign each person in your house their own bin~I let my kids decorate their own bin. Now tell everyone to "drop" their items into their bin when entering the house. This eliminates the "I can't find my back pack, shoes.....or what ever" Also hang some decorative hooks above the bins for hanging up coats, back packs etc

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Start Your Business Today for Only $15!

Business Consultant with Au Naturel Glow is as follows : Business Consultant

* $15 to join as Business Consultant
* Own FREE Personal Website Link :
* Personal Domain Name available!
* One sale every month any size to remain active. This can be a personal sale or a sale through your personal website link. Includes samples purchased for your business.
* $3.00 incentive bonus when a Business Consultant joins your downline.
* Commission level 30% on all personal orders or sales through the personal website link. 5% off all downline sales When your sales have reached $350 :: commission level will increase to 35% :
* Introduce new members to Au Naturel Glow and earn 5% off all downline sales
* Invitation to our yahoo group for updates on
* Exclusive new product launches and all pertinent company information:
* Eligible to participate in Company Contests, and Incentives. Sales aids sent with 1st order!
The ability to increase commission level to 40% : Information on how to increase through the top level 40% will be displayed in the business group.
* Invitation to our Business Group
* Business Building Tips & Tricks : E-books and incentives. FREE products when available to help you in building your business : Templates and printable brochures, monthly flyer available in the business group. Use of our Chat room to hold parties for your Au Naturel Glow Business.
* Opportunity to purchase 1 of each item we carry at 45% off the Retail Price on joining ANG company anniversary date.
* FREE Banner & Button for advertising personal website link


**I'd love to have you join my team~I have SO much fun hosting parties and using these products!
Maryann Richards
ANG Consultant #200717
Au Naturel Glow;more than just minerals!
www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

~Our minerals are TRULY all natural, no Bismuth Oxychloride or fillers to irritate your skin

Monday, July 28, 2008

Staying Beautiful on a Budget

You don't have to be rich to look beautiful. Below I have listed some beauty items that just about anyone can afford. Here's to you.....beautiful!

Every woman wants shiny, luxurious hair, here's a great beauty find for under $10!
Brush Strokes wooden boar bristle oval cushion brush available at Sally Beauty Supply for just $7.99

Want great volume to your hair, try John Frieda Luxurious Volume Thickening Mousse
$6.50 at major drug stores including Target and Walmart

Lushious lips your thing....here's one to try e.l.f. Super Glossy Lip Shine for only $1 you can afford to try all the colors! Found here: www.eyeslipsface.com

Nobody wants wrinkles. Hop on over to Walmart and try the Neutrogena Anti-Wrinkle Intensive Night Cream just $16.99

Bat those lovely lashes with Maybelline Great Lash suggested retail $6.15 You can find this in virtually every major department store

One more....Don't forget to clean your face to keep in in great shape. Beauty find: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser found in most large department and discount retailers for under $15.00

**Info courtesy of Erin White's article in Sunday's Dallas Star Telegram

Sunday, July 20, 2008

Site of the Moment

By far one of my favorite sites for those of us that are trying to be a little "greener"

www.reusablebags.com

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Turkey Meatballs

1 lb Jenny O ground turkey
1 1/2 TB Watkins poultry seasoning*
1 TB chopped parsley
1/2 cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese
1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs

Combine all ingredients well and form into golf-ball sized balls
Place meatballs on a cookie sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes
Remove from oven and place in your favorite tomato sauce
Simmer for 1 hr and then enjoy!

* Found here: www.watkinsonline.com
My associate # is 378762 Please use when ordering



Feeling Silly Today

Hope this brings a smile to your face


I know what Victoria's Secret is. The secret is that nobody older than 30 can fit into their stuff.


The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight because by then, your body and your fat are really good friends.


Just when I was getting used to yesterday, along came today.


Sometimes I think I understand everything, then I regain consciousness.

I gave up jogging for my health when my thighs kept rubbing together and setting my pantyhose on fire.


Amazing! You hang something in your closet for a while and it shrinks two sizes!

Skinny people irritate me! Especially when they say things like, "You know, sometimes I just forget to eat."
Now, I've forgotten my address, my mother's maiden name,and my keys,but, I've never forgotten to eat. You have to be a special kind of stupid to forget to eat.


A friend of mine confused her valium with her birth control pills. She had 14 kids, but she doesn't really care.


I read this article that said the typical symptoms of stress are: eating too much, impulse buying, and driving too fast. Are they kidding? That is my idea of a perfect day.

Mineral Make-Up Applications Tips

Courteous of Au Naturel Glow minerals

New to Mineral Makeup?
Simple steps for applying your minerals
1} Apply Foundation
2} Add Blush to cheeks
3} Last apply Finishing Veil.
Results in a wonderful Natural Look!
Minerals are so versatile experiment to find your own application techniques!


Dry Method Application

Dip natural Kabuki brush into jar : gently tap off excess powder. Apply foundation in a circular motion
Foundation will warm to the skin & simply glide onto the face.
Apply in light layers until coverage is complete.


Wet Paste Application

Applying your minerals as a wet paste brings out the natural beauty
in the makeup.
The natural opalescent, when applied in this manner appears stunning!
Foundation : Mix mineral foundation lightly with water
Apply to face with sponge.
Add mineral foundation to damp sponge and apply.or Add mineral foundation to your daily moisturizer and apply!
Eyes : Decide on mineral you’re going to apply. With a natural eye shadow brush, using the product lid take a small amount of eye mineral, add a tiny drop of water & mix together.
Too much water; just add more powder until you have a small amount which resembles a creamy consistency.
Remove excess from makeup brush using the side of the lid : Gently add minerals to eye area. You may feel like color is grabbing and streaking. As soon as the powder is dry within seconds blend mineral shadow lightly with a dry brush.

Au Naturel Glow: www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Re-Post for a Friend

PLEASE check out this site, it could save a life

Sparrow House
My name is Tara Deck and I am the director of an organization called Secret-Angels. We help various businesses and nonprofit organizations (on and offline) with fundraising, grant-writing and overall program development.
Currently I am helping implement a grass-roots organization called Sparrow House, which will be a domestic abuse transitional home for women with children. As a child witness of domestic violence - this is a project very near and dear to my own heart. My mother suffered many years of being abused - but with 3 daughters to take care of, she didn't have anywhere to go to get help.
Have you ever thought about the options that women with children have after they leave a crisis center? Unfortunately there are not many, and 85% of these women return to their abusers.
The goal of Sparrow House is to offer these women group homes in which to raise their children in a safe environment, as well as equip them with the life skills necessary to survive on their own. At this time, I am only trying to create awareness about this organization and get the word out that domestic abuse survivors DO have somewhere to turn.
I hope that if you have experienced any form of childhood abuse, you will help me spread the word about this unique program! The more people know - the more they care, and the goal of Sparrow House is to work directly with the children in order to prevent this vicious cycle from repeating itself through the coming generations.
Please feel free to contact me if you would like to know more about this organization - or any of the other programs that Secret-Angels support or the services we offer! God Bless,

Tara Deck
Sparrow-House <http://sparrowhouse.wordpress.com/>
Elgin, Texas

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Just ONE of the Many Specials Watkins Has This Month

This has fast become one of my favorite items that Watkins has to offer and this month it is on sale~hurry though this is a seasonal item and will not be around for long:


Special Pricing on Italian Pepper
Our award-winning Granulated Black Pepper is skillfully combined with a classic collection of savory Italian herbs to lend a dash of zest, spice, and amorĂ© to your favorite pasta sauce, meat, fish or poultry dish, or just about anything that could use an Italian accent. Act quickly, though—this blend will be saying ciao before long!(47 g/1.6 oz) Regularly $4.99 Special $4.59

Can be found here: www.watkinsonline.com
Please put my associate number in at checkout #378762

Au Naturel Glow Summer Special

Through July and August Au Naturel Glow is offering 10% off any 3g-10g jar of foundation

Just use discount code :CLIENT at checkout

Au Naturel Glow~mineral make-up at it's finest Our minerals are TRULY all natural. There is no Bismuth Oxychloride in our minerals!

www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

July specialty soap~ Chocolate Raspberry

Welcome to My Blog

So, I did it. I started my own blog.

If you didn't know, I am a work at home mom of three and I currently represent a couple of different direct sales companies. I also make my own chocolate candies and sweets~you can find out more about that here: www.sweettreatmaryann.etsy.com


I decided to start this blog to keep you up to date on various sales, specials and other random "stuff" that may be of interest.

Here are my links for Au Naturel Glow (mineral make-up): www.aunaturelglow.com/store/aGo.asp?aff=200717

and Watkins: www.watkinsonline.com Please use my associate number if you place an order this way I will get credit for the sale......gracias #378762
Until next time.....