This recipe tip is for those who like to whip their own whip cream.  I am one of those people.  I believe Cool-Whip does have its place, but there is nothing more divine than homemade whipped cream.  Mix ½ cup (or less if you are watching your diet) “Cream of Coconut” and 1 cup of heavy whipping cream.  Use your electric mixer to whip until soft peaks, and enjoy.  That’s it ladies! This recipe is so simple – yet so rich with the wonderful tropical favor of coconut.  I suppose if you have some coconut flakes around you can sprinkle some on top (to give the hint of the coconut flavor).  Thank you to my friend Kate for the coconut flakes idea.  You can find a wonderful “Berries and Coconut Cream” recipe on page 164 in the August 2009 Real Simple Magazine.  Serves 8.

Entertaining Tip

At your next cocktail party, why not use your martini glasses, margarita glasses or even dessert cups to display your nibbles.  Try putting your bread sticks, mixed nuts, fruit, etc. in them.  If you have a “Margarita” theme going, use just margarita glasses; this will really tie your snacks to your theme.  For an outdoor party, try using your plastic glasses/cups.

Birthday Cards/Notes     

I found this on the web, I thought I knew how to write a card/note, but I’ve learned - there are ways to improve just about anything. 

• Compliment the recipient’s best qualities. Take advantage of the opportunity to say why loved ones are special: “I’m so lucky to have such a caring, supportive, funny friend” or “I’m so proud of you for being such a compassionate person.”
• Turn a birthday card into a thank-you note. Tell someone what a difference he or she makes to your life.
• Focus on the year ahead and what you hope it brings: joy, success, a new job, celebrations, possibilities, etc.
• Don’t assume people are thrilled about a birthday. For some folks age is an issue.  Emphasize the person, not the milestone.

Most important, plan ahead and get that card out before the actual “birth” day. I have to work on this one myself……