By Alana Stroud
Jungle Love at the Phoenix Zoo

Spend this Valentine’s Day with some unusual friends from the animal kingdom, courtesy of the Phoenix Zoo! On February 13 from 6–9 p.m., the Phoenix Zoo will host an entertaining evening that will feature Spanish-inspired cuisine, an open bar, and Flamenco dancing. Some of your favorite critters will even greet you at the door! Tickets are $80 per person. phoenixzoo.org

The Big West Valley Home & Landscape Show

Completely unique, and different from other Maricopa County Home Shows, this edition on March 5–7 at the University of Phoenix Stadium will feature vendors and companies from all over the Phoenix area that are specialists in their field. They’re ready to help you make your home and yard special, creative places tailored to you and yours. maricopacountyhomeshows.com

2010 Olympics

Our friendly neighbors to the north host the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Vancouver, Canada, a favorite of famous faces, will welcome the world’s greatest athletes for the best in cold-weather competition. If you weren’t fortunate enough to score tickets to the Games yourself, you can keep up with the events by watching them on TV. Host viewing parties during your favorite events, complete with Olympic-themed food (see this issue’s Flavor recipe) and fun! vancouver2010.com

St. Patrick’s Day Feast

Watch a culinary master demonstrate how to prepare a spectacular St. Paddy’s Day feast at the Classic Cooking Academy in Scottsdale on March 12 from 7–9:30 p.m. This interactive event is also a tasty one: the studio audience dines on the finished product! $60 per person. pvc.maricopa.edu/ce/spring/cooking.html

Long Lashes

One of the spring 2010 fashion trends is long, beautiful eyelashes. Whether you heavily apply the mascara, apply false lashes, try out lash-growing products, or even go the “permanent” route by having individual lashes glued on (these last a couple of weeks), now is the time to accentuate those lashes and bat them to your benefit!

Spring Break

Spring break is not just for college students, who frequent top destinations like Cancun or Acapulco, Mexico; Panama City, Florida; or our own Lake Havasu for the social event of the year. You could take advantage of the break to explore a European city or see the East Coast. Or, if you’d rather keep it close to home, grab the kids and head out to the baseball park or the zoo or go play in the snow up north before the sun melts it away!

Bona Fide, Not Bogus

Home interior trends for 2010 are all about what’s “real” and disregarding faux pieces. Hand-me-downs and generational pieces have become wildly popular. Fill your home with woods, metals, watermarks, and even rust spots—the more imperfections, the better. With the recent trend toward green products, the more natural your interior, the more you help the environment.

By Kaitlyn Grimmer
With a cosmopolitan holiday meal, it’s more than just the holiday ham.

Appetizer: Crostini
Italian Christmas Eve

Italians have their big feast on Christmas Eve, or La Vigilia, consisting of a five- to nine-course meal. They focus on seafood and sometimes have up to seven different types of fish for different types of symbolism.

6 slices of Italian bread cut ½-inch thick
¼ c extra-virgin olive oil
1 4-oz. can kalamata olives, pitted or finely chopped
½ lb fresh mozzarella cheese, cut in 14 ¼-inch slices
½ lb plum tomatoes, cut lengthwise into 16 ¼-inch slices
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp black pepper

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Brush one side of the bread slices with some
of the olive oil and arrange on a baking sheet, oiled side up. Bake until lightly browned and crusty, about 4 minutes. Spread the chopped olives on each piece of toast, cover each with a slice of mozzarella, and top with a slice of tomato. Brush the tomatoes with the remaining oil and sprinkle with the salt and pepper. Bake until the cheese is melted, about 8 to 10 minutes. Serve at once.

Compliments of Olivia Gutierrez and recipetrove.com

Side Dish: Dublin Coddle
Dublin Christmas

Each Dublin family has its own variation of the coddle. It came about when people made if from what was available in the old Dublin times of the last century. Remember: the taste of the sausage can make or break a coddle.

6 medium potatoes cut into halves
3 carrots, chopped into thick disks
2 onions, sliced thickly
1 stick of celery, chopped
6 strips of bacon
1 lb good Irish pork sausages
2 cups of vegetable stock
pinch of parsley and thyme

Divide the potatoes and put half of them into a large pot. Put all the other ingredients into the pot. Pour in the vegetable stock. The potatoes should barely be covered. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer over a good heat for 35 minutes. Now add the rest of the potatoes and boil for the last 25 minutes or until they are soft (they won’t resist the fork when you prod them!). Add black pepper to taste and serve with a slice or two of freshly baked crusty white bread and loads of butter.

Compliments of Sean Kennedy and Granny Lily Foy

Dessert: Sticky Date Pudding
Australian Christmas

The English have Christmas pudding. Australians have sticky date pudding.

9 oz pitted dates, chopped
1 tsp baking soda
1 ½ cups boiling water
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
1 1/3 cups self-rising flour

Caramel Sauce:
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup thickened cream
½ tsp vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 355°F. Grease and line the base of a 3-inch-deep, 8-inch-wide cake pan. Place dates and baking soda into a bowl. Pour boiling water over them. Allow to stand for 20 minutes. Using an electric mixer, beat butter, sugar, and vanilla until pale and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Using a large metal spoon, fold through date mixture and flour until well combined. Spoon mixture into prepared cake pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Turn onto a plate.

Sauce: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until sauce comes to the boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 2 minutes. Pierce pudding all over with a skewer. Pour ½ cup of warm sauce over warm pudding. Stand for 10 minutes. Cut into wedges. Serve with remaining sauce.

Compliments of Chloe Davidson and Taste.com.au

Breakfast: Ozoni Soup
Japanese New Year’s Day

This traditional soup is eaten with the family on New Year’s Day morning to start the New Year together.

5 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
15 round slices of daikon radish
10 round slices of carrot
15 stalks spinach
3 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
5 Japanese rice cakes, also known as mochi
5 cups water
2 pieces kelp, each about 7 inches long
1 tsp salt
1 tsp soy sauce

Soak kelp in water for 30 minutes. Heat water until boiling, then remove kelp. Pour ¼ cup cold water into soup to cool it down. When they rise to the surface again, turn off the heat. Strain soup. Add salt and soy sauce. In a medium pot of boiling water, add salt and cook shrimp until pink and cooked through, about 3 minutes. Drain and let stand in a bowl. In a medium pot of fresh boiling water, cook the daikon, carrot, and mushroom slices for 3 minutes, then add spinach and cook 30 seconds longer. Drain and set aside in another bowl. Place rice cakes in a microwave ovenproof dish, then cover with plastic wrap and cook at medium power for 2 minutes. Divide rice cakes, shrimp, daikon, carrot, mushrooms, and spinach among 5 soup bowls. Pour soup over the ingredients in each soup bowl.

Compliments of Peggy Matsuishi and grouprecipes.com

By Alana Stroud
Fingerwaves The era of the glamorous 1940s are again the cat’s meow, with items like ankle boots, fitted jackets and skirt suits, stylish hats, and gloves. Complete your classy look with this elegant hairstyle, perfect for any occasion and easy enough to do at home.

Acting Classes If you never took drama in school, you missed out! Not only is acting fun, but studying this art form can enhance your public speaking skills, confidence, workplace performance, and communication skills. It also provides the opportunity to discover a bit about yourself along the way. For fun times, useful skills, and friendly instruction, check out Dearing Acting Studio (dearingstudio.com) or one of several other Valley studios.

Anna Sui for Target It’s back-to-school time, and designer Anna Sui has teamed up with Target to introduce a bold new fashion collection inspired by popular CW primetime soap Gossip Girl. The collection will hits stores September 13, just in time for a new school wardrobe. Save money and look good!

Wet ’n’ Wild Water Park Living in Phoenix means that we can hit up the water parks until at least October! Wet ’n’ Wild has finally opened its doors and has awesome attractions the whole family can enjoy, like the thrilling Tornado and the one-of-a-kind Maximum Velocity H2O Coaster. Season passes are available (a major money saver), and special events are scheduled. phoenix.mywetnwild.com

Home Cooking With the current lack of resources to make going out to eat a twice- or thrice-weekly event, home cooking is again becoming a valued tradition. Increase the family time once usurped by the jobs of two-income parents and after-school activities, and make those meals in your own kitchen! Cooking classes are readily available to aid those in need of a refresher course.

Actors-Turned-Singers Jane Powell. Debbie Reynolds. Frank Sinatra. Vic Damone. Gene Kelly. These stars of eras past were known as triple threats: they could sing, dance, and act—and do all three well. Many Hollywood heavyweights attempt a crossover career—sometimes it’s a brilliant move, other times an embarrassing one. For some stars worth listening to—and watching, as well—check out Zooey Deschanel’s original ’60s-era creations (with M. Ward, as band She & Him), Robert Downey Jr.’s singular stylings in his album The Futurist, and the gritty vocals of legendary film star Clint Eastwood.

By Alana Stroud

Hot by the poolside

2009 has introduced some edgy, cute, and innovative swimsuit designs. Whether you like one-piece suits, bikinis, or mixing and matching your own top and bottom, check out what the models are wearing before hitting the water.

Melting the right way

Visit Arizona’s 70-year-old family-owned and -operated Cerreta Candy Company for one of their 30-minute daily tours and see how their mouthwatering candy is created from start to tasty finish. (623) 930-1000 or cerreta.com

Summer Camps

With the kids being out of school, they’ll no doubt get bored quickly hanging around the house. Sign them up for a summer camp that focuses on their interests and give ’em a break from the heat—there’s certainly no shortage of either! Find the perfect camp for your kid at azcentral.com/thingstodo/kids/summercamps.php.

Scottsdale Quarter

This new shopping Mecca will keep you cool and out of the sun. The center features the hottest stores, plentiful dining options, and a 36,000-square-foot boutique movie theater, so it won’t matter what the temperature is outside. (480) 270-8123 or scottsdalequarter.com

Take advantage of summer deals

Airlines and hotels are trying to drum up recession business by offering summer rates you can’t refuse. Hotels like Westin Kierland Resort & Spa and W Scottsdale are offering 15 to 20 percent off normal room rates. US Airways is also offering lower airfare from Arizona to places like Hawaii for nearly half the previous cost!

Hot Tea, Cool Jazz

Head up where it’s a bit cooler and visit The Jazz Bouquet in Sedona. Arizona’s only couture floral studio and tearoom features live jazz on Saturdays, tasty treats, and stunning gifts, and is perfect for private parties. (928) 204-1091 or thejazzbouquet.com

By Alana Stroud

Gift Basket

With Easter right around the corner, check out Gift Basket Occasions’ wide assortment of specialty baskets, featuring everything from fluffy bunnies to cuddly duckies and stuffed with goodies like jelly beans, chocolate, and cookies. Also, don’t forget about Mom this Mother’s Day! Gift Basket Occasions has something unique for every holiday. (480) 473-3975 or giftbasket-occasions.com

Social Media

Don’t like to talk on the phone and never have enough time to sit down and write a letter? Thanks to social media Web sites like Twitter, Facebook, and Tip’d, all you need to do is join, find your friends and family, and stay involved in their lives the easy way. Sites like these are great for personal and professional use.

Neon

According to what the models sported at the spring fashion shows, neon is going to make a huge statement this season. You can find hints of your favorite bright color in everything from shoes and clothing to watches and makeup. Not only is neon a bold fashion statement, it’s sure to spread some cheer wherever you go.

Remodeling

Spring is here—along with tax returns—so why not take some of that hard-earned money and whip your house into better shape? Have rich wood floors installed or spruce up your existing ones, upgrade the kitchen cabinetry, or tackle that mangy backyard and shape it up for some fun barbecues. You could repaint the walls, reupholster your living room set, or simply move furniture around. Small changes like new light fixtures or hardware can also make a big difference.

Water Parks

Get wet and make a splash when the water parks open Memorial Day weekend. There are water parks for young and old on all sides of the Valley: Mesa’s Golfland Sunsplash, Tempe’s Big Surf, the Arizona Grand Resort in South Phoenix, and Waterworld Safari on the West Side. Don’t forget that Anthem has a great little water park called Big Splash, and Salt River tubing is always fun for the adults.

Memorial Day Concert

Monday, May 25 from 4–9 p.m. at Tempe Town Lake Park
The Memorial Day Celebration is an annual event recognizing the memory of our war heroes through a spectrum of family events including food, games, entertainment, auctions, and raffles. The Academy Drum and Bugle Corps will debut their 2009 show music. (480) 734-7879 or arizonaacademy.org

Maricopa County Fair
April 15–19 at the State Fairgrounds
Round up the fun-seekers for this year’s Maricopa County Fair! You’ll enjoy all your favorite fair foods, carnival rides, livestock shows, exhibits, and terrific shopping, too! Stars like SpongeBob and Curious George will be there. Discounts on admission are available. (602) 252-0717 or maricopacountyfair.org

By Alana Stroud

The Irish Cultural Center’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Faire

March 14, All Day
1106 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85004

When it comes to celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, there is no better company than the Irish! Enjoy live music on two stages, let loose and dance, watch the kids have fun in the children’s area, and check out the various vendors serving up tasty food and fun souvenirs.

Teddy Bears

Everyone loves teddy bears! No matter whom you may like to buy a bear for, there are many companies offering packages that include items like pajamas or candy along with your teddy bear. Be creative—visit a Build-A-Bear Workshop to create your own for that special someone.

Yellow

Has 2009 got you seeing yellow? Not to worry—it’s been named this year’s color, and we could all use a little sunshine! Whether your closet already is full of this cheery color or you are deciding on a color for your drab walls, new car, or spring accessories, adding some yellow accents to your life is a surefire way to remain color-savvy this year.

Buying American

With America’s economic struggles, it has never been a more prime time than now to perform your civic duty and buy American. There are many American-made products out there if you take the time to look, and there are a number of deals as well. Another great way to support our country is to buy from mom-and-pop stores—the little guys who depend upon their loyal customers to survive. Small businesses are the essence of America—don’t let your favorite local shops and restaurants disappear!

Remakes

News from Hollywood is that 2009 will be the year of the remake, so keep an eye out for movie trailers to see if one of your favorites is being done over with today’s new and rising talent.

Dance Lessons

With Valentine’s Day coming up, surprise your sweetie by signing up for dancing lessons and have a romantic rhythmic experience! Classes are available at different studios all over the Valley. Infuse some Latin flavor into your relationship with salsa or mambo, get downright Western with line dancing, or exercise your elegance in the ballroom. There are group or private sessions available—no need to fear your dancing skills! Whether you’re looking for simple fun or aim to stun your wedding guests during your first bride-and-groom dance, you’ll find that the benefits of dance enhance your body’s circulatory system, boost confidence, and provide a wonderful bonding experience.

By Alana Stroud

Miracle on Main Street
Kierland Commons
Greenway Pkwy. and Scottsdale Rd.
Nov. 29, 2008
Join the festivities at Kierland Commons on the Saturday after Thanksgiving for some holiday cheer! Bring the kids for complimentary horse-and-carriage rides, pictures with Santa, storytelling with Mrs. Claus, and shopping for Mom and Dad! Enjoy this and much more, including a tree lighting at sunset, without having to travel all the way to the North Pole. (480) 348-1577 or kierlandcommons.com

Volunteering
Join in the fun during this holiday season—volunteer! There’s no better way to give back to the community and share your life’s blessings than to give to those less fortunate. There are many centers around the Valley where you can go to wrap presents, serve food, provide home deliveries for various needs, and so many other ways of expressing generosity.

Azlimo.com
Got a big date? Prom night? Ladies’ night out? Whatever your special occasion may be, azlimo.com has you covered. With several limos and packages to choose from, they’re sure to have something that caters to your needs. Fully stocked minibars, satellite TV, and fun interiors are bound to keep you and your guests entertained during your night on the town. (480) 635-8887 or azlimo.com

Westgate Rocks New Year’s Eve Party
Westgate City Center
9400 W Maryland Ave.
Glendale, AZ 85305
5 p.m.–2 a.m.
Ring in the New Year in style at the bustling Westgate City Center. You’ll enjoy performances by nationally recognized entertainers, dining, dancing, DJs, and two large-scale LED video monitors to watch New Year’s countdowns and other programming. 21 and older only. (623) 772-4000 or westgateaz.com

Cesar Chavez: Autobiography of La Causa
By Jacques E. Levy, Barbara Moulton, Jr., Fred Ross, and Jacqueline M. Levy
When you read this intimate look into the Mexican-American activist’s life and work, you will truly understand what it means to fight for your rights and enjoy the freedom that can only be found in America. Cesar Chavez is one of the pillars of Arizona’s history.

Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
Though we’ve been told gas prices will go down, there’s no better time to purchase a fuel-efficient vehicle than now. How lucky we are that automakers of every brand have caught on to this fad! No matter who your favorite automaker is, with a little research you’ll most likely find they have a new model vehicle that will get you up to (and possibly beyond!) 35–40 mpg.

Acai Berry
This up-and-coming superfood is becoming widely known for its powerful antioxidants and help in losing weight. Similar to a blueberry yet resembling a grape, this fruit has been said to boost energy levels, help alleviate diabetes, improve circulation, and provide many important vitamins. As always, you should consult a doctor before taking any supplements.