Kristin van Ogtrop's Blog, page 145
April 10, 2013
The Perfect Snack Portion
I can barely make it through the afternoon without a snack. There’s something about that 3 PM blood-sugar crash that just slays me. But I’m trying to snack smarter and healthier, so I’m following these portion guidelines to make sure I’ll still be wanting dinner. 200 calories – This is the ideal amount to perk up your metabolism without having [...]







Published on April 10, 2013 16:45
Wednesday Trivia: Waiting on Hold
The other day I got a call from my doctor’s office. As soon as I picked up the phone, the person on the other line said, “Please hold.” Ten minutes later I was still waiting. In fact, I was on the verge of hanging up when a voice came on the line and asked who I was. Turns out the [...]







Published on April 10, 2013 12:20
Serve Vinegar-Based Salads Outdoors
If you’ve gotten into the spring spirit, and are planning a picnic or just a dinner with friends on the patio, remember this trick when you’re planning your menu. If you’ll be serving food outside make vinegar-based salads instead of mayonnaise-based salads. Why? Vinegar is acidic and helps prevent bacteria growth, which is important if your salads are going to [...]







Published on April 10, 2013 11:00
A Crunchy New Snack You’ll Love
Move over, wasabi peas—I’ve found something even better. I recently sampled Saffron Road’s crunchy chickpeas in three different flavors—Bombay Spice, Falafel, and yes, Wasabi. The Wasabi definitely packs a big punch of heat (I was pleasantly surprised), Bombay Spice boasts a tongue-tingling blend of paprika, garlic, onion, and turmeric, and Falafel—my favorite—has a nice balance of heat along with traditional [...]







Published on April 10, 2013 06:45
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com Trendy Wedges, Heels, and Sneakers How to Stop Snoring How to Use Kitchen Accessories Filed under: Daily Thought







Published on April 10, 2013 04:30
April 9, 2013
Smart or Silly: Bottle Opener & Cap Catcher
It officially feels like spring (or more accurately summer) today in New York City. And so my mind had turned to outdoor entertaining. I’m lucky enough to have outdoor space—a rarity in an NYC apartment, so I’m looking forward to a summer of roof deck parties. This Bottle Opener & Cap Catcher from Trudeau (available at trudeau.com for $13) caught my eye. [...]







Published on April 09, 2013 16:05
Wedding Cake Alternatives via PopSugar.com
I’ve got weddings on my mind. My brother is getting hitched in less than two months and whenever I read something wedding related, I immediately think of their upcoming celebration. I recently read this post from our friends at PopSugar.com and fell in love with the idea of an “alternative wedding dessert.” My favorites are the doughnut tower or rustic pie cake (Ok, I know what you [...]







Published on April 09, 2013 12:40
Need Decorating Help? Go on a Virtual Date with a Designer
Stuck in a decorating rut? It’s not surprising. It’s too easy to get overwhelmed by the magnitude of 1) sticking with a style 2) knowing how furniture and accessories will fit together 3) picking out a paint color 4) finding someone to help you and 5) paying for it all. Tastemaker.com launches today—and with it, the promise of affordable, personalized [...]







Published on April 09, 2013 10:05
Salary Negotiation Tips for #EqualPayDay
Today is Equal Pay Day, the day when women’s salaries catch up to men’s salaries last year. (Learn more about Equal Pay Day here.) As of the last Census, women earn 77 cents for every $1 that men earn. If you’re looking to close the gap in your own salary, here are some tips to take to the negotiating table: [...]







Published on April 09, 2013 07:30
Today’s Thought
Get the daily thought in your inbox. See more inspiring quotes on our Pinterest board. What’s Hot on RealSimple.com 11 Fresh Green Bean Recipes How to Be More Patient Flattering Neutral Makeup for All Skin Tones Filed under: Daily Thought







Published on April 09, 2013 04:30