Innehållsförteckning för April 2013 från Good Housekeeping

We evaluate products for the magazine and the Seal to make sure you get good value. 23,500 That's how many milliliters of water (equivalent to 470,000 drops!) we showered onto umbrella fabrics to determine how well each one repelled rain. See which collapsibles held up best on page 33. We do something that no other magazine does… If any product that has earned our Seal is defective, we'll replace it or refund your money—just notify us within two years of purchase (see details at right). DIRECTOR Miriam Arond TECHNICAL MANAGER & ENGINEERING DIRECTOR Rachel Rothman FOOD DIRECTOR Susan Westmoreland FOOD ASSOCIATE FOOD EDITOR Catherine Lo ASSOCIATE FOOD EDITOR Erin Phraner ASSISTANT FOOD EDITOR Sherry Rujikarn EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jessica Fox NUTRITION NUTRITION DIRECTOR Samantha B. Cassetty, M.S., R.D. HOME HOME APPLIANCES,…

My Smart Solution "These ice cream cookie bowls are sweet treats for family sundae night! To make, roll out homemade dough to ½ inch thick, cut into circles with a glass, and place pieces on an upside-down muffin tin (generously greased and floured so they won't stick). Bake, let cool, then remove carefully with the help of a knife." —AMY EDMISTON, 27, NASHVILLE Reader Feedback When Love Gets a Time-Out In January's "A Little Bit Divorced," Rachel Zucker explored the effects of a brief separation on her marriage. Would a break help or hurt yours? "My parents' commuter marriage was the best love I knew." —June Edelstein 90% SAY "HELP" "If you're drinking or bingeing while apart, that probably won't help." —Andrea Todd 10% SAY "HURT" Your best tips for……

These purse-size protectors are designed to really weather the storm GHRI INSIGHT High price doesn't necessarily mean better quality: One $99 model proved difficult to use and had only average performance and durability Tough to close? Put one hand on top and the other on the handle, then compress The only thing worse than getting caught in the rain without a brolly is being stuck with one that is flimsy or falls apart. That's why the GHRI Textiles Lab evaluated 31 compact folding models for resistance to heavy rain and to turning inside out (inversion), as well as for ease of use. We also measured length, weight, and canopy diameter to help you find the ideal tote-able—and save your looks on your next good hair day. Top Picks…

If winter has left you feeling as energetic as Jabba the Hutt—and in about the same shape as the rotund Star Wars villain—Mehmet Oz, M.D., has two "F" words (good ones!) for you: "food" and "fun." "This plan delivers plenty of both," he says. "You'll get lots of delicious, nourishing foods—meals that are also easy to prepare. And you'll get the energy you need to enjoy your day, not just endure it." Trust us: This expert knows what he's talking about, and not only because changing others' lives has won him Emmy Awards for The Dr. Oz Show and made seven of his books, including You: The Owner's Manual, cowritten with his friend Michael Roizen, M.D., best sellers. Nor is it simply because he continues to save lives in his…

KEY Hot Moderate Cold Sunny Humid Windy High-Altitude Dry Smoggy NEW ORLEANS Climate TOP SKIN DOC Deirdre Hooper, M.D. Banish "Bacne"      • SKIN WOE Acne, especially on your back.      • SOLUTION "Use your facial skin care on your body, but choose acne-fighting salicylic acid, not benzoyl peroxide (BP). If a BP lotion gets wet during the day—when you sweat, for example—it can bleach your clothes. Instead, use a 2% salicylic acid wash on your back when you get in the shower, leave it on for a few minutes while you cleanse your face, and then rinse it off." Try Clean & Clear Advantage Daily Soothing Acne Wash ($7.50, drugstores). Say Bye-Bye to Bumps      • SKIN WOE Little red bumps between the breasts, on your rear, and in other skin folds.…

Help for all your fashion dilemmas Q. Cutesy rain gear (like floral-print boots or a hot pink poncho) just isn't my thing. I want to look sophisticated on the wet days ahead, but a khaki trench seems blah—any ideas? —GLYNIS B., VIA FACEBOOK 1 City Slicker Sporty and clean-lined, a salmon-hued anorak ($40, Uniqlo) layers on easily and can be stowed in its own carrying pouch. Another foul-weather friend: waxed-cotton jeans in on-trend lavender ($50, Simply Vera Vera Wang)—they'll stay dry when it's drizzling 2 Weather or Not Chic enough for clear-sky days, a trench ($150, Ivanka Trump) gets updated in mint green with black piping and an eyelet-lace hem. (Too much? Snip it off.) 3 Hot Spot You'll be protected and put-together in this subtle polka-dot jacket ($40,…

PEOPLE WHO EAT MORE FRUITS and veggies have higher levels of "mental well-being," a recent British study found. And while larger quantities of the healthy stuff correlated with greater mood lifts, participants didn't have to buy out the greenmarket: The happiness meter peaked at about seven portions a day—and a serving can be just six orange slices. Easy ways to stay well, eat right, get fit p. 98 When should you work out? p. 91 Produce plusesfor moms p. 100 Calling Mr. Sandman p. 89 Quick cure for leg cramps…

I SPENT THE SUMMER of 2007 training for an Ironman Triathlon—a 2.4-mile swim, then a 112-mile bike ride followed by a 26.2-mile marathon, all to be completed within 17 hours. So when I got a pain on my left side, I thought I'd pulled a muscle. I mentioned it to my ob-gyn, who ordered an ultrasound "to be safe." That showed nothing gynecological. An orthopedist found nothing in my bones or muscles. But all a gastroenterologist had to do to look worried was listen to my abdomen with a stethoscope. She scheduled a colonoscopy. Afterward, while I was still in a fog from the sedation, she said, "I found something that concerns me." That woke me up fast. "On a scale of one to 10, how concerned?" I asked. "About…

p. 115 3 tips to make love last…and last p. 111 Dating advice from Peggy Post p. 105 Why ice cream truly is comfort food p. 117 Get your creativity flowing Real women,real-world advice When faced with an annoying situation—likebeing stuck in a traffic jam you could have avoided—don't beat yourself up about it. A study at the University of Luxembourg found that if you laugh gently at a misstep ("Hey—at least I'm getting some downtime here") instead of belittling yourself ("I was an idiot to take this route!"), you'll be less tense and feel a greater sense of well-being. So swap those derogatory digs and try humoring yourself—nicely.…

NCIS'S Michael Weatherly shares… What keeps my marriage connected The power of planning, pampering, and couch potato–ing 1 My wife, Bojana, is a doctor; we both work intense hours and have months when we barely see each other. It isn't easy, but we realize nobody said it was supposed to be! 2 We are big planners. We sit down for weekly assessments to map out vacations, etc., and keep things smooth. 3 My wife gets pampered pretty well. She's had me trained since she was pregnant, when I started making her oatmeal with fresh berries every morning. 4 We take pleasure in small things—giggling together at Portlandia, or taking a walk with our daughter, Olivia, who's almost 1. 5 I have a secret stash of Nutella that I pull out…

Here, four little investments with really big payoffs WE TALK SO MUCH ABOUT socking away money (which is a good thing, of course). But, the truth is, sometimes you need to spend a bit to save moolah—and to improve your life. Check out these tips, and you'll see exactly what I mean! Take Someone You Admire to Lunch or Coffee WHY IS A COFFEE OR LUNCH DATE worth your money, beyond offering a gripe or gossip session? Because connections are a big secret to how you can get where you want to go in life. Whom do you admire, either at work or socially? Lunch or coffee could open doors: I can't tell you how many times a quick bite with someone has turned into an opportunity. Bonus: Adults with…

Double Duty Brilliant new uses for everyday items The Hangers We Love "Huggable Hangers ($20 for 28 pieces; hsn.com) earned the Good Housekeeping Seal for their sturdy construction and smart design. Only ¼ inch wide, they maximize your space, and they're flocked to keep even silky, strappy pieces hung up—and off the floor." CAROLYN FORTÉ, GHRI DIRECTOR, HOME CARE…

Adjust the top rack up or down (most newer models let you do this) to fit even odd-sized items. Unloading tip: Top-rack dishes dripping on the dry ones below? Empty the bottom rack first. Arrange extra-dirty or crusty items on the bottom rack facing the center, where the spray arm is. Don't mix silver and stainless steel flatware; if the metals touch, the silver may get pitted. Alternate spoons (bowls up and down) to prevent nesting and get each piece clean. Using a detergent pod? Place it in the dispenser—don't just toss it in, or it'll dissolve too quickly. Surprise! You'd never guess you could put these in the dishwasher. Use the Sanitize setting to help kill germs and freshen these things, and run in a cycle separate from dishes…

Test-kitchen recipes, ideas, and tips PRESS 10 oz. coconut macaroon cookies into a greased 9-in. pie plate, then pour 1 c. boiling heavy cream over 1 lb. finely chopped semisweet or bittersweet chocolate in heatproof bowl and stir until smooth; POUR into crust, chill 6 hours, and top with raspberries and slivered orange peel. SERVES 12 p. 171 Quick fixin's from a dollop of honey p. 156 15 Easter recipes—from fast to fancy p. 180 Delish deviled eggs p. 179 What's for supper? Shrimp!…

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU HAVE? MAKE PATTIES! 15 min Island Burgers HEAT 2 Tbsp. canola oil in 12-in. skillet on med.-high. MEANWHILE, in lg. bowl, mix 1 lb. ground turkey, 2 tsp. jerk seasoning, 3 finely chopped green onions, and ½ tsp. salt; form into ½-in.-thick patties. COOK 10 minutes, turning over once, or just until cooked through (165°F). MEANWHILE, in sm. bowl, mix ½ c. plain Greek yogurt, 2 chopped green onions, and 1 chopped mango. SERVE burgers on 4 toasted buns with Bibb lettuce and mango-yogurt sauce. Serves 4 HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU HAVE? SAUCE SOME NOODLES! Spicy Szechuan Noodles 20 min HEAT lg. covered saucepot salted water to boiling on high. ADD 10 oz. Chinese egg noodles or thin spaghetti. Cook as label…

Fun, Fastvv Easy CRUNCHY CURRY MIX with 1 tsp. each curry powder and lemon juice and ⅛ tsp. salt. Spoon into whites; top with sliced almonds and snipped chives. SERVES 6 CAESAR MIX with 2 Tbsp. grated Parmesan, 2 tsp. lemon juice, and ¼ tsp. each minced garlic and pepper. Spoon into whites; top with shaved Parmesan. SERVES 6 PESTO-BACON MIX with 2 Tbsp. pesto and 1 tsp. lemon juice. Spoon into whites; top with crumbled cooked bacon. SERVES 6 SMOKY CHIPOTLE MIX with 1 Tbsp. chopped chipotles in adobo, ½ tsp. vinegar, and ⅛ tsp. salt. Spoon into whites; top with chili powder and cilantro. SERVES 6 Ask Susan Q: How do I prevent that green tinge around the yolk when I hard-boil eggs? —DEBBIE BROWN, DANBURY, CT THE…

For intrigue A Nearly Perfect Copy By Allison Amend Ambitions spiral out of control in this deft tale of forgery in the art world, featuring starving painters, devious dealers, and an auction-house appraiser who would do anything to bring back her lost son. For your book group The Burgess Boys By Elizabeth Strout Two brothers flee small-town Maine and family history to become big-city lawyers. Then a cry for help comes from back home; this time there's no keeping secrets. Wincingly funny, moving, wise. For high romance The Fever Tree By Jennifer McVeigh A penniless young British émigré falls for the wrong man and faces other trials as she remakes her life in the harsh environs of colonial South Africa. A classic Victorian plot rewarmed, but still tasty. For culinary…

The sharpest guy in the room shares his strategies for smart eating—and the secret that keeps him happy, focused, and full of zip How do you capture the great energy of a guy like Dr. Oz? In sitting down and talking with him for just five minutes at our cover shoot, I learned enough to fuel my brain for the next two months—ideas for little changes to get healthier, smarter ways to eat that don't feel like deprivation, tips on how to sneak in exercise, and, most important, wisdom about what makes a happy life. For example, here's what he told me about upping energy and lowering stress when I asked how—and if—he ever really relaxed: "I don't draw a very clear line between work and play. That's a problem…

A clothing swap is great motivation to do a closet purge (a seasonal necessity) and a fun way to connect with friends and update your outfits—at zero cost. Plus, it's eco-friendly. To ensure a successful swap, invite at least 10 women whose style you admire; have each person bring three to 12 things in good condition (including jewelry and unopened cosmetics) to trade, suggests Melissa Massello, cofounder of the Swapaholics, who stage clothing exchanges in the Boston area. Don't worry about guests' being different sizes: A roomy dress can be cinched in with a great belt, and accessories work for every size and shape. Consider opening the event to friends of friends as well, and you'll add to the mix of swappables you get and make things more social. After…

I saw my child act like a respectful global citizen. On a trip to Tokyo, my daughter Honor learned how to say 'please' and 'thank you' in Japanese. Good manners go a long way!" No Seal for you! Pregnancy Police WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU'RE EXPECTING: You hit the ladies' room more often. But April Roller was fired for it, she says. Roller, who worked at National Processing of America in Kansas, had morning sickness, which meant many trips to the loo. Her (female!) boss allegedly offered to get her a larger trash can so she didn't have to leave her desk to be sick, then axed her, telling Roller she didn't "pay [her] to pee." Now Roller is suing, which we hope cures her boss's potty mouth.…

CHERRY-NUT Granola Squares ACTIVE TIME 10 minutes TOTAL TIME 30 minutes plus cooling MAKES 16 squares 2 c. old-fashioned oats, uncooked ¾ c. sunflower seeds ¾ c. walnuts, chopped ½ c. honey 2 tsp. olive oil ½ tsp. vanilla extract ¼ tsp. salt ½ c. dried cherries 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 8-in.-square baking pan with parchment paper and lightly coat with olive oil cooking spray. 2. On med. jelly-roll pan, combine oats, sunflower seeds, and walnuts. Bake 10 min. or until lightly toasted. 3. Meanwhile, in lg. microwave-safe bowl, microwave honey 30 sec., until runny. Stir in oil, vanilla, and salt. 4. Fold oat mixture into honey mixture, then fold in dried cherries. Pour into prepared pan and firmly press into pan with offset (angled) spatula or lightly…

1 Most Stylish WARBYPARKER.COM FRAMES Lots of cool looks (their brand only); fashion satisfaction is all but guaranteed—unlimited home try-on (five pairs at a time), and you pick and order your fave. PRICE Almost all single-vision glasses (they don't sell multifocals or progressives) cost $95, and shipping is free. SERVICE Glasses arrived less than a week after ordering. Don't like 'em for any reason? Full refund within 30 days. 2 Best Bargains GLASSESSHOP.COM FRAMES Peruse 500-plus women's styles. PRICE Average for our testers' single-vision glasses (with anti-scratch and UV-protective coatings): $46.68. SERVICE Helpful ordering tutorial online; support via phone, e-mail, or live chat; and speedy delivery (just over a week for our New York–based testers). Full refund within five days (and, if frames break, 50% back within 90…

How to wear them… Small Bust Horizontal stripes = oomph. Chunky extras balance the graphic prints Big Tummy The peplum's flare minimizes your middle. Nude stilettos make legs look long and lean Petite Go for bold: A close-cut cardigan in "ka-pow" yellow and an outsize tote get you noticed Wide Hips A flowy cardigan drapes and disguises. Ethnic earrings draw attention upward Pants: $80, Talbots; talbots.com GET THE LOOK Small Bust: Sweater, $19, Joe Fresh. Bag, $53, Ami Clubwear. Sunglasses, $96, Michael Stars. Pumps, $69, Aerosoles. Petite: Cardigan, $138, Boden. Scarf, $27, Isaac Mizrahi Live. Tote, $119, Simply Vera Vera Wang. Loafers, $120, Naya. Wide Hips: Tank, $25, Calvin Klein. Cardigan, $198, Eileen Fisher. Earrings, $113, Kevia. Watch, $35, Timex. Slingbacks, $99, CC Corso Como. Big…

We read the research so you don't have to IF JUST THINKING about weekend chores makes you tired, veg out with your favorite old TV shows. A busy week can zap the willpower reserves you need to tackle to-do's, but research from the University at Buffalo found that spending time with, say, Monica, Rachel, and the gang can help you regain the energy and self-control you need for the next challenge. Just be sure to connect with fictional friends you know, says the study author. Their familiarity makes them more restorative than new ones. Bye-bye, Leg Cramps Simple stretches before you turn in may be all it takes to rein in charley horses. In a recent Dutch study, 40 sufferers who tried a three-minute workout were able to reduce their…

TUNE IN! For more easy meal ideas, watch Drop 5 Lbs With Good Housekeeping on TV, March 16, 10:30 A.M. ET, on Cooking Channel THICKER SHAKE, THINNER YOU Talk about a liquid diet: If a blended drink feels thicker, you're more likely to expect it will fill you up, regardless of its actual calories, reports a British study. And since the prospect of a full belly can quell appetite and influence portion sizes, you just might end up eating less. Thicken your A.M. smoothie (but not your waist) by using nonfat Greek yogurt and frozen fruit. DO THE MATH Johnny Rockets: 1 Bacon Cheddar Double (1,770 calories) = 3.5 Bacon, Lettuce, & Tomato Sandwiches (480 calories each) Play for Keeps IN A GET-SKINNY TWIST, Stanford researchers wondered if learning maintenance…

What she secretly wishes you knew about helping, talking, and just being there WHEN I FIRST GOT MY BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS IN FALL 2009, I THOUGHT of a slogan from the early days of the women's movement: "Laugh, and the world laughs with you. Cry, and you cry with your girlfriends." ∂ I made a quick count of the breast cancer survivors among my far-flung girlfriends and came up with eight—count 'em, eight—women who had been through this particular mill, all of them currently flourishing. ∂ Fortunately, two of these women, Joyce Purnick and Lynn Povich, are seasoned journalists who researched their breast cancers as thoroughly as if they were reporting a Pulitzer Prize–worthy story on the disease. I worried about asking my friends, years beyond their diagnoses, to revisit…

Overwhelmed by busyness? Try a brainstorming session to boost your bliss WHETHER YOU'RE KNITTING a scarf or starting a blog, creating something is one of the most delightful ways to enhance happiness. When you collect ideas and combine them in an original way, you can't help stretching yourself. And when you do it with others, you strengthen your relationships—one of the best ways to increase joy. Except, most people—busy women especially—don't take the time to be creative. For one thing, creating means pausing, playing, and sometimes failing. It doesn't always feel productive, and it's tough to justify activities that don't pay off immediately. Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike (which can be guilt-inducing, since it looks like doing nothing), spark ideas with these techniques and watch the happiness flow.…

CLOCHE CALL This superfast arrangement showcases the delicate tints of dyed chicken eggs and plain quail eggs. Just fill a terracotta saucer with craft-store moss, add a potted fern, and cover with a glass bell jar—done! SHELF IMPROVEMENT Bring some spring to a bookcase, top left. On wooden eggs, brush acrylic paint and let dry, then trim with buttons and bits of ribbon. To hang, affix one end of ribbon to egg with hot glue; tape other end to shelf. BOXED SET Hot-glued onto craft-store hatboxes, plain and patterned ribbons play up subtly dyed eggs, bottom left. Keep the whole look understated with natural straw basket filler, not the shiny plastic stuff. FLOWER SHOW Lush centerpieces of peach stock, coral sweet pea, pink tulips, and white hyacinths set the tone…

NAME: KATIE BOWER, 32 OCCUPATION: PHOTOGRAPHER LOCATION: LOGANVILLE, GA 1 SECONDHAND STYLE "Why throw away when you can just recycle?" asks Katie, who shares her tips on bowerpowerblog.com. She adds modern flair to "upcycled" finds—like the two thrift-shop armchairs, reupholstered in kid-friendly green indoor-outdoor fabric—with graphic patterns, as on the chevron pillows and striped rug. 2 PAINT JOB For a punch of color and texture with minimal effort (only 15 minutes' worth!), Katie used a palette knife to blend seven sea-hued acrylic paints on canvas. 3 FUN WITH DESIGN On weekly thrift-store runs, Katie shops for cheeky tchotchkes. When she spied this turquoise dachshund Buddha, she says, "I laughed and just had to have it." COUNTRY CLUB CHIC Inspired by a love of preppy fashion, Katie used the classic color…

Ask Heloise for help at goodhousekeeping.com/heloise Q: "My lampshades have accumulated a lot of dust over the years. Can you recommend an easy method for cleaning them?" —ALEDA JACKSON, VIA E-MAIL DEFINITELY! THERE ARE a number of simple ways to bust the dust, depending on the type of shade. For a pleated one, whisk it off with a clean paintbrush or vacuum it with the dusting-brush attachment. For a flat shade, whip out your lint roller or brush, or blow it off with a hair dryer set on High. The key is to tackle the chore somewhat regularly so as to prevent the dusty buildup that can be such a pain to remove. Did you know? A clean paintbrush can also dust off blinds, carved furniture, and computer keyboards Q:…

MENUS Fast Curried Carrot Soup Two-Herb Italian Bread Spring Asparagus with Lemon Pesto Ham with Creamy BBQ Sauce Warm Red-Potato Salad Orange "Crème Brûlée" Fancy Minted Pea Soup Asparagus with Eggs Mimosa Apricot-Almond Rice Pilaf Sesame Biscuits Ham with Bee-Sting Glaze Berry-Ricotta Cheesecake Fancy MINTED PEA SOUP See recipe, page 166 Fast CURRIED CARROT SOUP In sm. bowl, stir together ½ c. plain low-fat yogurt, 1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh mint leaves, ¼ tsp. curry powder, and ⅛ tsp. each salt and pepper. (Makes ½ c.) Divide 2 qts. warmed store-bought carrot soup among 8 bowls. Swirl 1 Tbsp. yogurt mixture into each bowl. Serves 8. Fancy HAM WITH BEE-STING GLAZE AND SESAME BISCUITS See recipes, pages 164 and 166 Find it Yes, this chamomile garnish is edible! Look for…

Winner ARCHER FARMS Hickory-Smoked Spiral-Sliced Half Honey Ham ($1.89/lb., at Target) Looking for a "balance of pork and smoky flavors"? This ham, above, is perfection. Our tasters also raved about its "moist," hearty texture. Runner-Up HILLSHIRE FARM Specialty Spiral-Sliced Brown Sug-ar Cured Half Ham ($3 to $3.49/lb.) A "juicy" ham, it won praise for its texture—"slightly chewy…in a good way"—as well as its "sweet and nicely spiced" flavor. Runner-Up NIMAN RANCH Bone-In Half Uncured Spiral-Sliced Ham ($7 to $8/lb.) Tasters who preferred "mild" flavor, "minimal smokiness," and a "slightly dry" texture gravitated toward this ham. DID YOU KNOW… 1944 When the spiral slicer was invented 170 cal and 6 g fat in a 4-oz. serving =a lean choice TEST-KITCHEN TIP Remove a no-heat ham from the…

1 Best Plastic EMSA BY FRIELING Clip & Close, $4.50 to $27 The latching lids on these create a supertight seal—ideal for keeping brown sugar, chips, crackers, and other pantry essentials fresh. Available in sets as well as solo sizes from 5 oz. to 365 oz. (about 46 c.). 2 Best Glass SNAPWARE TOTAL SOLUTION Food Storage With Pyrex Glass, $7 to $9 For those who prefer glass: These absolutely airtight tubs proved perfect for use in the pantry, fridge, or freezer. Plus, you can pop the Pyrex bottoms in the oven—no plastic option can say that! 3 Best for Transport RUBBERMAID PREMIER $7 to $14 Brown-bagging it? These lightweight, break-resistant containers are virtually leakproof and showed minimal staining after microwave use. Lids snap onto the tubs' bottoms for…

Like it? Find it here… This Works! Page 33 Samsonite Windguard Auto Open Close #51701, Samsonite; samsonite.com. ShedRain RainEssentials Auto Open and Close #2034, ShedRain; shedrain.com. Totes Signature Micro 'Brella #08601, Totes; totes-isotoner.com. Make Me Over Page 72 1: Jacket, $40, Uniqlo; uniqlo.com. Sweater, $104, SuperTrash; supertrash.com. Coated jeans, $54, Simply Vera Vera Wang; kohls.com. Scarf, $56, Subtle Luxury; madisonlosangeles.com. 2: Eyelet-lace-hem trench, $150, Ivanka Trump Outerwear; zappos.com. Leggings, $20, L'Amour by Nanette Lepore; jcp.com. Tote, $168, Fossil; zappos.com. 3: Anorak, $40, Merona for Target; target.com. Skirt, $78, Boden; bodenusa.com. Chic at Any Size Page 77 Scallop-print pants,…

A stylish way to thorn-proof thumbs TWO TO GROW ON $7 and $20 Protect your hands while rooting around your garden in these suede-and-canvas gloves. Then, show off the fruits (or flowers) of your labor in a pretty pitcher that pinch-hits as a vase. (Both at Target) These snug, stretchy bracelets will fit any wrist SIBLING REVELRY $25 Elinor Lipman's witty The View From Penthouse B follows two midlife urban sisters' search for love…and money CALL OF THE WILD $13 each In hot hues with rhinestone accents and whimsical motifs, these bangles have animal magnetism to spare (Target) $40 …and Under Treats for You WE CAN'T RESIST …the All About Bauble bib necklace ($22, shoplately.com), which weaves together mint-colored beads and metal links to suit dresses and denim alike SHORT…

Got five minutes? Take a pause and smile (or laugh!) with this month's top Web and TV moments WORDS OF WISDOM PINTEREST Pinned by user Elizabeth Berry from illustrator Shelli Dorfe's Etsy store, dazeychic GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOU SMILE YOUTUBE :) Watson just might be the most obedient dog in the world. Search for "Watson" and "puddle" on YouTube to watch. FAVE LINE TELEVISION "I love wine. I also love chips. Don't make me choose!" —Ava (Maya Rudolph) on Up All Night FUNNY ONE-LINERS TWITTER MATTHEW PERRY "Does wearing workout clothes everywhere you go make you healthier?" MOLLY RINGWALD "Not that I don't love cupcakes, but I think we are ready for a new pastry trend." STEVE MARTIN "Trusting wife believed me when I said the 4th quarter was just…

"I HAVE A HORRIBLE SWEET TOOTH," ADMITS HODA KOTB. "It's gotten to the point where if I throw a cookie in the garbage, I have to douse it in Cascade. Otherwise, why wouldn't I take it out and eat it?" Such TMI-caliber confessions are exactly why millions of fans tune in to the fourth hour of Today and watch Kotb gab and sip wine (yes, at 10 A.M.) with co-anchor Kathie Lee Gifford—and maybe flirt with the male guests. Having recently ended a long-term relationship, Kotb, 48, says she's not above suggesting which guys to have on the show: "I felt a connection with Tony Danza, but the next time we booked him…nada!" Kotb credits her 2007 battle against breast cancer with unleashing her bold approach to life. "I learned…

2-Minute Tutorial "how I look polished for my patients" Elizabeth Thompson, M.D. Physician, Scarsdale, NY "Tinted sunscreen protects my skin and provides sheer coverage." SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion SPF 50 ($32, skinceuticals.com) "My favorite mascara doesn't flake, so I never have to worry about raccoon eyes." YSL Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils ($30, Sephora) "I spritz on dry shampoo to freshen my style on busy days." Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Spray ($23, Sephora) Go to goodhousekeeping.com/2minbeauty for a video of work-appropriate-makeup tips Beauty Decoded To plump up. The term, invented by marketers, may not be in the dictionary, but don't dismiss the anti-aging po-tions that contain it. Just check for ingredients like collagen-boosting retinoids and moisturizing hyaluronic acid, which can plump up ("redensify") thinning skin. One good option:…

REFRESH YOUR FACE Peter Thomas Roth Firmx Peeling Gel ($48, Sephora), a Good Housekeeping Seal holder, will leave your skin looking smooth and radiant in minutes. Its three enzymes gently dissolve the bonds between dead cells on the surface so they slough right off. Live Longer! SIT DOWN ON THE FLOOR ANY WAY YOU'D LIKE, using as little support as possible from your hands, knees, etc. Then rise. Done? Now you'll really want to be sitting: This simple test can help predict a shortened life span. In a new Brazilian study, researchers found that participants who'd used the most body parts were 5.4 times more likely to die within the next six years than those able to sit and rise using just their own strength or one body part. Get…

Rule 1 BUSTED!: You can't wear navy with black Surprise: This duo is a win-win when the blue hue isn't too dark. It should be obvious that your mix is 100% intentional—witness this sporty jacket and pants. Tip two: Pick solids over prints, opposite, for a sophisticated partnership. LIGHTEN UP Navy and black look best with a hit of brightness: Here, the jacket's hardware and a tee do the job; on the opposite page, a gleaming gold necklace does This page: Jacket, $260, Lauren Ralph Lauren. Tee, $80, Club Monaco. Pants, $40, Duro Olowu. Opposite: Blouse, $59, Calvin Klein. Pants, $40, Simply Vera Vera Wang. RULE 2 BUSTED!: YOU SHOULD NEVER MIX PATTERNS To make sure a multi-print ensemble looks chic, not clashy, keep everything in the…

Eating smart made easy It's the best food finding since chocolate was declared healthy: Three cups of popcorn have more good-for-you polyphenols than a serving of fruit. In fruit, because it's about 90% water, these nutrients are diluted. But in popcorn, with only 4% water, they're concentrated. Just be sure to skip the butter and salt to keep your kernels in a healthy zone. And fill your produce bin, too—you need the variety to get a range of polyphenols. Want to Be Seen as More Loving? Serve vegetables with dinner. When presented with nearly identical stories of a mother's busy day, women in a Cornell University study were more likely to perceive the mothers as "thoughtful" when they were described as serving frozen green beans along with chicken breasts and…

Lower your stress and increase your fitness—it's all in a day's work 1 TUNE OUT TRAVEL TENSION Your risks of high blood pressure and weight gain rise if you take long trips to work. Combat the white knuckles of traffic and train delays by listening to audiobooks or music you find relaxing. 2 SKIPPED BREAKFAST? Pair yogurt with fruit and enjoy while checking your e-mail. For a brain boost, add some walnuts—their antioxidants may enhance memory, and the protein-packed combo will quash hunger. 3 BREATHE DEEPLY The website calm.com provides a two-minute relaxation exercise—good for your mental well-being and your heart. Use it daily or just when you need it most. 4 CRUNCH THROUGH LUNCH In a Swedish study, twice-weekly exercise sessions boosted workers'…

Q: Recently, at a friend's anniversary party, I met a man my age (early 50s) who's single. We spent the night laughing and dancing. Would it be appropriate to get his phone number from my friend and ask him out? THE ETIQUETTE VERDICT Go for it! Who says a woman can't make the first move and initiate a date? P.S. (PEGGY SAYS) You sound a bit nervous about reaching out to this guy. If so, recruit a friend to help you practice what you'll say. Try something like "It was fun at the party, and I'd love to hear more about [blank]." Before you dial, be sure to have a plan in mind—a walk in the park and coffee, for instance. That way, you'll feel—and sound—more confident. Q: "An old…

Not long ago, I had breakfast with an old friend who chided me for not keeping up with blog entries on my website. "You haven't posted for six months," he said. This man is one of my dearest friends. Anytime he wants to, day or evening or middle of the night, he can call or e-mail me. We've known each other for over 30 years. So why is he reading my blog? Perhaps it's just tidier and more efficient for him to zoom in and out electronically and anonymously, eliminating the need for a meet-up or a telephone conversation, which sometimes entails an awkward ending ("OK, then, I'll let you go" is a favorite of both my friend's and mine, as we are Midwesterners who feel it is rude to…

Bone-Inlay Table At nine inches wide and 23 inches tall, this curvy stunner ($50) from HomeGoods is just the right size for resting a drink sofa-side. Akbik Gallery's slightly sturdier piece ($425) is 12" by 12" by 18" and handmade in India from camel bone and resin. Textured Turquoise Tray With details like nickel hardware and rolled edges, Global Views' buttery leather tray ($223) has an elegant look. Pier 1's faux-leather version with a croc finish ($25) serves up similar style with silvery handles. Floral-Print Pillow Seventeen screens are used to hand-print CR Laine's linen cushion ($280), resulting in this super-lush pattern. Pretty and practical: Whitlock & Co's jungle-inspired cover ($42), made of stain-resistant polyester.…

Perfection isn't a priority in Barri Leiner Grant's laid-back Windy City walk-up. In the four-bedroom rental near Lake Michigan that she shares with her husband, Alex; her two daughters, Emma and Quinn; and their dog, Rocco, the emphasis is on family-first comfiness. From the no-nonsense mattress ticking that upholsters a settee to the purposefully mismatched kitchen chairs, nothing is off-limits or precious. Each room includes peeling-paint vintage furniture and unstuffy artwork—amateur oil paintings, old maps placed in new frames—discovered on Grant's frequent flea market rummages. There are also objects with backstories sprinkled about, like shells frombeach vacations or a fur pillow sewn from a sheared beaver coat that once belonged to Grant's mother. The resulting mix creates just the kind of personal, history-rich home that designer Nate Berkus champions. "The…

Super Shredders Protect your identity with one of the five document-demolishing devices that aced our tests Skinny Mini BLACK & DECKER STUDIO SHREDDER (6 sheets at a time), $48 At 16" x 13" x 4", this stylish, lightweight device is ideal for small spaces and rolls easily to where you need it. Its pullout bin makes cleanup a snap—and we love the brilliant color. MAKING THE CUT Shredders that cross-cut rather than strip-cut your documents offer greater security ABOUT 8.6 MILLION U.S. households were victims of identity theft in 2010. Since crooks go after documents with personal data like your Social Security number, it's crucial to destroy old bank statements and pay stubs. Many of the latest shredders have new features such as jam-proof technology and safety sensors. See…

for YOGURT FRUIT DIP ¾ c. plain yogurt + 3 Tbsp. honey + ¼ tsp. vanilla. Serves 4 for SAUCE FOR FISH ¼ c. lower-sodium soy sauce + 3 Tbsp. honey + 1 Tbsp. lime juice + 2 tsp. grated peeled fresh ginger; pour over 4 cooked salmon fillets. Serves 4 for A TOAST TOPPER 4 Tbsp. softened butter + 2 Tbsp. honey + ½ tsp. ground cinnamon. Serves 4 for DIPPING SAUCE FOR CHICKEN FINGERS ½ c. mayonnaise + 2 Tbsp. honey + 1 tsp. hot sauce. Serves 4 for A QUICK DESSERT 1 c. heavy cream + 2 Tbsp. honey; whip until thick; fold in 2 c. crushed meringues + 1 lb. sliced strawberries. Serves 4 for INSTANT HORS D'OEUVRES 1 sliced pear + ¼ c. crumbled Gorgonzola…

MU SHU SHRIMP 30 minutes or less TOTAL TIME 25 minutes MAKES 4 main-dish servings 3 Tbsp. hoisin sauce 1½ Tbsp. lower-sodium soy sauce 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil ½ tsp. ground ginger 6 oz. shiitake mushrooms, stems discarded, thinly sliced 1 Tbsp. canola oil 1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced 3 cloves garlic, crushed with press 5 stalks celery, thinly sliced 1½ lbs. shelled deveined lg. shrimp (16 to 20 ct.), chopped 1 Tbsp. distilled white vinegar 16 leaves Boston or Bibb lettuce ½ c. roasted cashews, chopped 1. In med. bowl, stir together hoisin, soy sauce, sesame oil, ¼ tsp. ground ginger, and ¼ tsp. pepper. Add mushrooms, tossing to coat. Let stand at room temperature. 2. In 12-in. nonstick skillet, heat oil on med. Add green onions…

Curl up, relax, and recharge We waltz in the white marble hall of the hotel. The music is a river, and we dance in it. Rajat holds me close, palm pressed against my chiffon back. And that is good, because I might otherwise float away. On my own, I am a clumsy dancer, but my fiancé makes me feel elegant and unabashed. My long hair, which I powdered with glitter and left loose, streams behind me. My collarbones rise like wings from the daring neckline of my kurti. Wherever my eyes fall, guests are appraising us. I'm unused to such scrutiny, but I hold myself tall and allow Rajat to twirl me around. Some of the smiles are serrated as knives. I feel them on the nape of my neck.…

A few things my grandchild would like me to know My granddaughter, Chancey, is 5 and already awash in false values. I'm 75, and so are my values. "It's time for our lady chat," she says. "Let's go." Our lady chats always take place during a walk outdoors. This day, she announces she is going to be a model. "I'll be on TV," she tells me. "If you're not dead, you can see me." Hands in the pockets of her coat, she strikes a pose: chin up, a twist of the head, her long blond hair swirling over the collar of the much-too-expensive coat I bought her for Christmas, which she has taken off only rarely since. I tell her that models have to do a lot of just standing…