The family name Mether only appeared 105 times in the 2010 US census and is therefore quite uncommon. These statistics make Mether the 154,907th most common family name in America. Forebears reports that this last name appears only 558 times worldwide, making it extremely rare. It currently holds the 566,665th spot on the list of most common last names globally.

We will delve into the history, meaning, and origins of the Mether family name. Furthermore, we will explore the cultural and historical significance of the Mether name and how it has changed over time. Along with that, we will share some interesting and lesser-known facts about this family name, which will provide a more complete understanding of its place in history.

The History and Meaning of the Mether Family Name

There is not much information available about the origin and meaning of the Mether last name, so it remains shrouded in mystery. Finland has the highest concentration of people with this family name despite its more common occurrence in Australia. Interestingly, some of the earliest records of the Mether family can be traced back to Australia, with Alexander Mether residing in Beechwood from 1832 until 1896. Another individual with the same family name, Carl Gustaf Sigurd Mether, is recorded as living in Singham, Australia, from 1863 until 1942, which could indicate the family's Finnish origins.

The Mether family name may have historical roots in Ireland and Scotland. In Celtic tradition, a communal cup called a “mether” was used to share drinks, typically alcoholic ones. Wooden methers have been found in Irish peat bogs. Some suggest that the name “Mether” comes from the Irish Gaelic word “Mehill,” meaning a “gathering.”

Others propose that the name is derived from the Welsh word “medd,” which is the old Welsh name for “mead.” The word “metheglin” originates from the compound word “meddyglyn,” which means “healing liquor.” All of these connections indicate that the Mether family name has its roots in words that signify sharing and friendship.

Spelling Variations Linked to the Mether Family Name

Like most family names, there are many spelling variations and possible connections to other families, perhaps even the Mather family. Names that go back to the medieval period usually have numerous spelling variations. During those times, there were no established spelling rules, and writers sounded things out phonetically. Additionally, historical records such as censuses might contain spelling errors, leading to the creation of new family names. Finally, family members can change their last name or spelling when they move to a new country.

To aid you in your research, here are some common spelling variations genealogists may encounter in historical records for the Mether family name.

• Metherd
• Miether
• Meuther
• Maether
• Meither
• Meether
• Methere
• Methier
• Meyther
• Mesther

To help with genealogy research and understanding spelling variations, the free website FamilySearch has provided a guide to help identify names of ancestors in various genealogy records. They also provide a link to a table identifying commonly misread letters and the errors they create in genealogical records.

Researching the Mether Family Name

Researching uncommon or unusual family names can be a challenging task, but fortunately, there are many online resources available. Census records are a great starting point when searching for your family history. These records contain detailed information about the family members, their ages, as well as their birthdays. Moreover, some census records may even note the immigration date for family members, which can be incredibly useful information.

If you are looking for more information, obituaries and church records are also great resources to consider. Other useful records include newspaper archives and family forums. Additionally, in recent years, DNA testing has revolutionized genealogy research, making it easier to connect with family members around the world. Finally, visiting local libraries is a good idea. Many academic and public libraries possess large genealogy collections awaiting digitization. You may find valuable information there.

Exploring Online Resources for the Mether Family Name

Here are some recommended research resources for people tracing the family history of the Mether family name.

• Ancestry – Although much of Ancestry's best information is behind a paywall, Ancestry is still a great resource, especially when researching rare family names. To give you an idea of how rare this family name is, while Ancestry might have millions of records for more common family names, it currently only has around 5,000 records for Mether.
• Genealogy Bank – This website offers access to census records, obituaries, and newspaper articles.
• My Heritage – This website claims to have approximately 57,510 records for the Mether family, including 14,961 family trees and 193 photos.

Since much of the Mether family history is found in Australia, you may find the National Library of Australia useful. This library has extensive genealogy records available online, including birth, death, and marriage records. Moreover, you may find the Society of Australian Genealogists to be a useful research resource. Finally, while researching Finnish ancestry may be more challenging, there are English websites like Finnish Family History (FFHA) that may be helpful.

Interesting Facts About the Mether Family Name

Here is some information about the Mether family name that you might find interesting.

• In Finland, the earliest recorded person with this family name was Joachim Osvald Mether. He was born in 1875 and died in 1954 at the age of seventy-nine.
• Over the years, the frequency of the last name Mether has changed. In the United States, the percentage of people with this last name increased by 471% between 1880 and 2014. However, in England, the percentage of people with this last name decreased by 50% between 1881 and 2014.
• In the 2010 United States census, 98.10% of the Mether family identified as “Non-Hispanic White Only.”
• In the United States, 85.19% of people with this family name are registered as Republicans, which is significantly higher than the national average of 46.77%.
• On average, individuals with the name Mether earn 33.71% less than the national average income in the United States, making approximately $28,604 per year.
• In 1940, the most common occupations for men with the last name Mether were farmer and laborer.
• Between 1950 and 2004, the life expectancy for people with the Mether family name in the United States experienced a significant increase, from forty years in 1950 to seventy-four years in 2004.
• Mether is also an uncommon first name, but there are records of 129 people with this name.
• The Royal Irish Academy's library contains a translated version of The Hospitality of the House of Two Methers, an Irish tale from the oral Celtic folklore of the medieval period.
• The Geneanet website reports that Guillaume, Jean, and David are the most common first names for men named Mether, while Marie-Catherine, Caroline, and Marguerite are the most common for women.

In Summary

Australia and Finland have the earliest records of the Mether family name, but it could have Celtic origins. Additionally, during the Celtic period in medieval Ireland, people commonly shared a “mead” as a communal drink, which symbolized family and friendship, and this could be a possible origin of the Mether name. However, overall, the origins of the family name are still quite mysterious.

Today, the name is still prevalent in Australia and Finland. While rare, the Mether family name is also present in the United States. In addition to general genealogy resources, it may be helpful to use genealogy websites specific to both Australia and Finland to locate more information about the Mether family name. Researching the complete history of the Mether family name might be challenging, but the challenge is part of the fun. Be sure to share your findings online to help other researchers, and happy researching!

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The last name Free is very uncommon. According to statistics, it is the 16,189th most common last name in the world, which means that approximately 34,397 people share this family name. The name Free appears in a few countries, including Libya, Australia, and England, but it is most commonly found in the United States. In America, 9,948 individuals share this last name, making it the 2,951st most common family name in the country.

The history of this uncommon family name is quite interesting. We will explore the origins and meaning of this family name. Additionally, we will present some intriguing information about this family name and highlight some notable individuals who share the Free family name.

The Origin and Meaning of the Free Family Name

Historians believe the name Free stems from the Old English word “freó,” a name for someone who was not a peasant or a servant but had their freedom. Some researchers speculate that people with a free-spirited, independent, or liberated nature may have been given the nickname “Free,” which then evolved into a family name. Furthermore, it is also believed that this family name was assigned to people who were formerly enslaved. Other scholars suggest that the name has connections to the North German nickname “wrēd,” meaning “wild, fierce, or angry.”

The Free family name first appears in Essex, England, where the family held a county seat in the twelfth century. In this region of England, the Free family were the wealthy lords of the manor. During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, members of the Free family immigrated to the United States, most notably John Free, who arrived in Virginia in 1664. During the 1800s, many members of the Free family immigrated to Australia and New Zealand, as indicated by immigration records. Immigration records also suggest that many Free family members immigrated to the West Indies.

Variations of the Free Family Name

In the Middle Ages, scribes spelled words phonetically instead of using set spelling rules. As a result, many last names, including Free, had various spellings. Considering these possible spelling variations is crucial when conducting genealogy research because they may provide clues to your family history. Here are some common spelling variations of the Free family name.

• Freed
• Freer
• Frees
• Freye
• Freet
• Freie
• Freez
• Freje

As people migrated to different parts of the world, variations occurred in the spelling of their last names. For example, the name “Frei” is a German variant, while “Fry” and “Frey” have Dutch and Scandinavian roots, respectively. Another variation is “Frée,” which is commonly found in Belgium. Additionally, some believe the family name Free is an Irish variant of the last name “Freeman.”

Researching the Free Family Name

There are many online resources available to research the Free family name. The popular Ancestry website has approximately 301,023 records relating to this name. The British genealogy website Find My Past has approximately 11,292 records.

Here are some other genealogy websites that may aid Free family researchers.

• Family Search – Similar to the Ancestry website, Family Search is a free genealogy website.
• Free Family Name on Genealogy – This genealogy forum is a great source for people trying to connect with other family researchers.
• My Heritage – This genealogy site holds almost 60,516,335 historical records that relate to the Free family name.

In recent years, online websites and DNA testing have advanced significantly, providing valuable resources for genealogical research. However, not all historical records have been digitized and made available online. Hence, it is worth checking out academic and public libraries' genealogy resources. Sometimes, digging through old records and archives can help uncover significant family history, making traditional research methods another valuable tool.

Fascinating Facts About the Free Family Name

After exploring the history and origin of this last name, here are some interesting facts that you might not know about the Free family name.

• The highest density of people with the Free last name occurs in Libya.
• In the United Kingdom, the most common first names for Free are John, William, Mary, and Elizabeth.
• There are approximately 2,345 people in the United Kingdom with the family name Free, which makes it the 3,973rd most common family name overall. As a result, approximately thirty-seven out of every million people in the United Kingdom have the last name Free.
• If your family name is Free, your paternal lineage may be connected to Alexander Hamilton, the subject of Lin-Manuel Miranda's hit musical Hamilton.
• Free family members have a higher risk of misophonia, a condition where ordinary sounds like yawning and chewing trigger a strong emotional response.
• In 1940, farming and housekeeping were the most common occupations for members of the Free family.
• In the United States, 69.36% of people with the Free family name are registered with the Republican party, which is 22.59% higher than the average.
• According to 23andMe, 53.4% of people with the Free family name have British and Irish ancestry. Additionally, 25.1% of individuals with the Free family name have French and German ancestry.
• Two members of the Free family were killed during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, which led to the United States entering World War II.
• Hippie parents gave their children the given name “Free” during the 1960s and 1970s. Actors Barbara Hershey and David Carradine named their son Free during the 1970s, but he later changed his name from Free to Tom.

Famous People with the Free Family Name

Over the years, members of the Free family have achieved success in various fields. Here are some of the most notable members of the Free family.

• Ann Cottrell Free — This American journalist was a well-known animal rights activist and advocate for abused animals.
• Arielle Free — She is a Scottish DJ and broadcaster who presents on BBC Radio 1. She also tours the world as a celebrated Electronic house DJ and is a podcast host.
• Chandra Free — She is a well-known American comic book illustrator and writer, famous for creating “The God Machine” comic book.
• Doug Free — He played as an offensive tackle for Northern University during his football career.
• Helen Murray Free – This American chemist revolutionized self-testing systems for diabetes and other diseases, making testing more efficient.
• Micki Free — He is a guitarist who won a Grammy Award for his work on the soundtrack to “Beverly Hills Cop.”
• Nell Tiger Free — This actress is most famous for playing Myrcella Baratheon in the HBO series Game of Thrones.
• Travon Free — This comedy writer won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series for his work on The Daily Show.

In Summary

The Free family name is quite uncommon and is primarily found in the United States, but it can also be found in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Libya. During the Middle Ages, the name was used to refer to people who were either free-spirited or not forced to work for the wealthy. Furthermore, there are various versions of this name worldwide, with many of them being specific to certain regions or countries.

If you are interested in tracing your Free family lineage, there are many online resources available to aid you. A plethora of historical records, including immigration and military records, census records, and family histories, have been digitized and can be accessed easily. There is much left to discover about the Free family name.

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It certainly is not the conventional method to fry an egg in the microwave. However, once you learn this quick and convenient method, you can have a perfectly cooked fried egg in a minute or so without the messy cleanup. Of course, the egg is not actually fried, but no one will ever know unless you confess that you made it in the microwave.

Why Cook Fried Eggs In the Microwave?

When you use the microwave to cook eggs, you can conveniently prepare them without needing a skillet or oven. Whether you are making poached, scrambled, or fried eggs, the microwave method typically takes about a minute to cook. As a result, it is a quick and easy option for busy mornings or late dinners. 

Additionally, it saves you clean-up time since you only have to clean a single container instead of a greasy skillet. Frying eggs on the stovetop often leads to grease splatter, but you will not have to worry about that using this method.

Tips for Making a Fried Egg In the Microwave

If you are ready to try this unusual cooking method, here are some tips for making sure your fried egg turns out perfectly.

• Eggs cook quickly in the microwave, so keep a close eye on them. To prevent overcooking, check on the eggs every 10 seconds or so to ensure that they cook perfectly.
• Make sure to leave space at the top of the bowl to prevent the egg from overflowing, which will make a mess and cause the egg to cook unevenly.
• Do not microwave an egg in its shell because the heat causes the liquid inside to expand, rapidly building up pressure. This pressure causes the egg to explode, which is not only messy but dangerous.

Factors That Will Affect the Cooking Time of Fried Eggs

Keep in mind that several factors will impact the overall cooking time. Here are some things to consider.

• Adjust the cooking time based on your preferences. For a runny yolk, cook the egg for a shorter time. For a fully cooked yolk, increase the cooking time slightly.
• No matter how you cook it, the size of the egg will affect the cooking time, but this is especially true when microwaving an egg. Adjust times slightly if you are using either an extra-small or extra-large egg.
• Another factor that can impact cooking time is the microwave's wattage. Higher-wattage microwaves will result in shorter cooking times.

What Are the Disadvantages of Cooking Fried Eggs in the Microwave?

When cooking fried eggs in the microwave, you may notice that they do not have the same texture as stovetop-cooked eggs and can sometimes cook unevenly. Cooking the egg in short intervals and rotating it during the process can help address these issues. If your microwave has a turntable, placing the egg in the center of the dish and allowing it to rotate during cooking will result in more even cooking. However, if your microwave does not have a turntable, you may need to stop and manually rotate the dish halfway through cooking.

Do Microwaved Fried Eggs Taste Different?

Microwaving fried eggs can result in a slightly different taste compared to frying eggs on a stovetop. The texture of microwaved fried eggs may be softer, and the whites may be less firm than eggs cooked in a skillet. However, the flavor of the egg itself should remain largely the same.

Microwaved fried eggs may not have the same browning or crispiness on the edges as stovetop-fried eggs. Overall, while there may be some slight differences, microwaved fried eggs are as delicious and satisfying, especially when you need a quick and easy option with minimal cleanup.

Can You Reheat Fried Eggs?

While we do not recommend reheating eggs in the microwave, the short answer is, yes, you can reheat fried eggs in the microwave. However, you only need to reheat them for about 30 seconds to warm them up without overcooking. Overcooking eggs makes them dry and rubbery.

In Summary

Using our recipe, you can quickly and conveniently cook fried eggs in the microwave. This method also requires less cleanup time since you don't have to clean a greasy skillet or oven. If you are short on time, you do not have to grab a granola bar and rush out the door. Now, you can prepare fried eggs with toast in just a couple of minutes using our microwave-fried egg recipe. You can easily make the family a hearty breakfast while on the go. Unless you tell them, no one will ever know that you microwaved your fried eggs.

How to Microwave a Fried Egg

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• Author: Bobbie Morris

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Ingredients

• 1 large egg
• Cooking spray or a small amount of butter
• Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

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Instructions

1. Lightly coat a microwave-safe dish or mug with cooking spray or a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
2. Crack the egg into the dish or mug.
3. For even cooking, make sure both yolks and whites are evenly distributed before placing them in the microwave.
4. Season with salt and pepper if desired.
5. Place the dish or mug in the microwave.
6. Microwave on high power for about 45 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave's wattage and how well-done you prefer your egg. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
7. Carefully remove the dish or mug from the microwave using oven mitts or a kitchen towel, as it will be hot.

Notes

Cooking times may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and personal preferences. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve your desired level of doneness.

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Wedle is an incredibly rare family name which could be challenging to research. According to Forebears, only 36 people in the world share this name. Out of these, 24 individuals live in the United States, while 12 people named Wedle reside in Poland. We will delve into the origin and history of this uncommon family name. Moreover, we will highlight some interesting facts about this name and provide useful tips for researching the rarest family names.

The History and Origin of the Wedle Family Name

Researchers believe that Wedle is a topographic name for people who once lived near the Wedde River in Lower Saxony, an area of Germany. It may also have been used to describe those who lived in or near Wedel, a town on the right bank of the Elbe River in Northern Germany.

Topographic names were common during the Middle Ages as they identified where people were from. These names often evolved into permanent family names for an entire clan. Historical records show instances of the Wedle name in the United States, England, and Norway. 

Moreover, the name may derive from the German word “wid(u),” which means “wood” or “forest.” Other sources found family records in Mecklenburg in Northern Germany. In that part of Germany, family members were active in local politics. Many settlers with this family name, or its variations, arrived in the New World during the 18th and 19th centuries. They established themselves along the eastern seaboard of the United States and Canada.

Names Similar to the Wedle Family Name

Very old family names often have many spelling variations. During the Middle Ages, scribes sounded out words phonetically, which resulted in many spelling variations of family names. These errors also unintentionally created new family names. Additionally, some family members altered the spelling of their names when they immigrated to new countries, either to make their names easier to pronounce or to blend in with the population.

For instance, while Wedel is considered a topographic German family name, it may also have Scandinavian links, perhaps with the countries of Denmark and Norway. Some researchers believe Wedle may be related to the old Danish word “wæthel,” meaning “ford.” Furthermore, other scholars propose that this name might be connected to the Norwegian family name “Velde.”

If you are struggling with your family research, try looking into potential spelling variations. Exploring similar names might lead to the discovery of unexplored family history. Below is a list of family names that are sometimes associated with the Wedle family name.

• Wedel
• Weidle
• Wedley
• Wiedle
• Weedle
• Wedele
• Weadle
• Wejdle
• Wesdle
• Waedle

Further spelling variations of this family name include Webel, Weebel, Weeble, and Weble.

Researching the Wedle Family Name

While Ancestry and 23andMe offer valuable genealogy data, much of the best information is only available behind a paywall that not everyone can afford. However, other online sites offer a great deal of information for free. These genealogy websites can help you research family names, including Wedle.

• FamilySearch is a free website that provides access to approximately 986,036 records for the Wedle family name.
• SortedbyNames has a page dedicated to the Wedle family history.
• Geneanet has a dedicated page for the Wedle family, featuring family tree and ancestry information.

The National Archives is an excellent resource for genealogy researchers, providing valuable tips and access to resources such as birth and marriage records, census records, and military records. Census records are particularly useful as they list the names, ages, and occupations of everyone in the household and sometimes even immigration dates. The National Archives even offers free charts and forms to help you organize your research.

If you are researching rare family names, it is a good idea to consult church records and libraries. Church records usually have christening, marriage, and death records. Libraries often have extensive genealogy collections and experienced research librarians who can assist you in your research. While there is a lot of genealogy information on the internet, not all records have been digitized. Research librarians may also recommend other sources, and some libraries offer free access to Ancestry and other genealogy tools.

Interesting Facts About the Wedle Family Name

According to recent data, the family name Wedle is quite uncommon, with only around one person in every 202,431,831 people worldwide sharing this name. This family name is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the states of Missouri, Georgia, and Florida. Outside of America, the name also appears in Poland. Here are some other interesting facts about the Wedle family name.

• Sixty-seven percent of people named Wedle live in North America.
• In the United States, the Wedle family's average annual salary of $28,240 is below the national average of $43,149.
• People with the Wedle last name register with the Democratic Party at a rate that is 30.1% higher than the national average, with 83.33% actively registered for the party.
• Between 1948 and 2004, the life expectancy of those with the family name Wedle in the United States increased from 48 to 78. The lowest life expectancy was in 1952.
• In the 1940 United States Census, the top occupation for men named Wedle was farmer, while for women it was a housekeeper.

In Summary

According to the Forebears website, Wedle is one of the rarest family names in the world, with only 36 individuals sharing it in the United States and Poland. Although some family names have millions of records on Ancestry, the Wedle name has considerably fewer. However, that doesn't imply that researching this name is impossible. It just means you may need to be more diligent in your research.

Sharing your findings online, especially for rare names, is always a good idea to assist other genealogists. You may have a clue about someone else's family history that they have been searching for. We also recommend visiting local libraries to find family records for this unique and rare family name. Researching unusual family names can be both challenging and enjoyable.

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One of the most common family names, or surnames, in the world is Brown. In the United States, Brown ranks fourth among last names and is the most common last name among African Americans. Furthermore, in England, it is the fifth most common family name, and in Australia, it ranks sixth. We will delve into the long history of the Brown family name, explore some interesting facts about it, and note some of the most famous people who share this last name.

The Brown Family Name: Meaning and History

The Brown family name dates back to the Middle Ages. It stems from the Old English word “Broun,” which means “brown.” Brown is a descriptive surname since it describes the physical characteristics of the family. Historians suggest that the name identified someone with either brown hair or eyes or someone with a dark complexion.

In 1185, the name “Le Brun” appeared in Normandy in some of the earliest records. The descendants of the “Le Brun” clan held a county seat in that region. The name also frequently appeared in the Domesday Book, which is one of the earliest records of land ownership in England. Like many names originating in the Middle Ages, several spellings exist in these records. Medieval writers spelled words phonetically, without any set spelling rules. This led to a variety of spelling variations of common last names.

In the Middle Ages, families and clans used mottos as war cries and displayed them on their coats of arms. The Brown family adopted “Floreat majestas” as their motto, meaning “Let majesty flourish.” Royalty in England and Scotland frequently used the surname Brown, as suggested by the family motto.

Records indicate that many people with this family name migrated to Ireland. In Ireland, the name also has its roots in the Gaelic word “donn,” another word for the color brown. In the 17th century, records reveal people named Brown began immigrating to America. The earliest records reveal that a number of Browns arrived in Salem and Watertown, Massachusetts, in 1630. Furthermore, during the 1700s, England sent many convicts to Australia, including a significant number of individuals with the last name Brown.

Variations of the Brown Family Name

With such a long history, the Brown family name appears around the world and has many spelling variations. You may come across some of these variations during your research. These variations are why it is important to keep an open mind and consider alternative spellings of your last name whenever you have a research block.

The name Brown has many variations across different countries. In France, it is often spelled as “Le Brun,” whereas in Ireland, it is “de Brún.” In Denmark, you may come across “Bruun.” Meanwhile, in Dutch, you find two common variations: “de Bruijn” and “Debruijn.” In Spain, the last name Brown appears as “Moreno” or “Pardo.” Finally, in Italy, the Brown family name is “Marrone.”

Here is a list of other common variations of the Brown family name.

• Browne
• Braun
• Bron
• Brun
• Broun
• Brohn
• Braughn
• Bruun
• Brownback
• Brownhill

Genealogy Resources for the Brown Family Name

Researching common last names like Brown poses special challenges. Despite the abundance of information available online, you may feel overwhelmed. You may even find online research counterproductive. The best approach to genealogy research is to gather as much information as possible about your family.

Begin by interviewing relatives and researching the information they provide. Look for historical records that support this family history, and make backup copies of any significant records you find. Don't forget to check historical societies and libraries, as not all genealogy records are available online.

Once you have a solid base of information, consider sharing it online to help other researchers. Additionally, DNA testing can be a valuable tool for genealogy research and has become more accessible in recent years through DNA websites. Here are some online resources to help you research the Brown family name.

• Ancestry – The Ancestry website has approximately forty-two million records relating to the Brown family name, including family trees, immigration records, and census lists.
• The Brown DNA Study – This DNA study includes over 463 tested members from 242 different Brown, Browne, and Braun families.
• Brown Family Genealogy Forum – This genealogy forum also has separate links for the Braun and Browne family names.
• FamilySearch – FamilySearch offers free genealogy resources and currently has 37,999,952 records for the Brown surname.

Facts About the Brown Family Name

Here are some interesting facts about the Brown family name.

• According to Forebears, approximately 2,599,112 have the Brown last name.
• Out of every 100,000 Americans, there are approximately 1.94 individuals with the last name Brown.
• 23andMe reports that British and Irish DNA is most commonly found in individuals with Brown family ancestry, representing 49.6% of users. French & German ancestry comes in at a close second with 21.3%, followed by Nigerian ancestry, which accounts for 4.9%.
• African-Americans adopted the Brown last name in honor of abolitionist John Brown, making it their most common surname, according to historians.
• Most people named Brown in the United States live in Mississippi, Texas, and Georgia.
• Out of every 100,000 Mississippi residents, 6.44 have the last name Brown, making it the most common surname in the state.
• People with the last name Brown in the US register as Republicans at a rate of 56.21%, which exceeds the national average of 46.77%.
• In the United States, people named Brown earn an average annual income of $40,421, which is 6.32% less than the national average.
• People in the Brown family identify as belonging to different Christian denominations around the world. In Ireland, it's mostly Catholic (36%); in Russia, it's Orthodox (68%); in Kenya and Nigeria, it's Christian (98%); in Lebanon, it's Evangelical (55%); and in Ukraine, it's Orthodox (76%).
• Charlie Brown, the main character of the Peanuts cartoons created by Charles Schultz, is a beloved and endearing fictional character.

Famous People With the Brown Family Name

Many people with this last name have gone on to great success in life. Here are some of the most notable people named Brown in history.

• Alton Brown — This American television personality hosted the Food Network shows “Good Eats” and “Good Eats: The Return.” He also appeared as a commentator on “Chef America” and “Cutthroat Kitchen.”
• Bobby Brown — One of the pioneers of a style of R&B called “New Jack Swing,” Bobby Brown hit the charts with “Every Little Step” and “Don't Be Cruel.” He was also Whitney Houston's husband.
• Chris Brown — Chris Brown is an American singer, songwriter, and dancer. His contemporaries refer to him as the “King of R&B.”
• Dan Brown — Dan Brown is an author famous for his novels “The Da Vinci Code” and “Angels and Demons.”
• Gordon Brown — This British politician served as the Prime Minister of Great Britain from 2007 to 2010.
• James Brown — Brown, a famous American musician, is best known for the hits “The Payback” and “Papa's Got a Brand New Bag.”
• Melanie Janine Brown — Better known as “Mel B,” she is an English singer who rose to fame as “Scary Spice” in the Spice Girls.
• Millie Bobby Brown — This English actress shot to fame after portraying Eleven in the Netflix series “Stranger Things.”
• Molly Brown — One of the most well-known survivors of the Titanic disaster, Molly Brown, was the inspiration for the play and movie “The Unsinkable Molly Brown.”
• Zac Brown — He is the lead singer and guitarist of the band, Zac Brown Band.

Final Thoughts

The Brown family name has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. As with many old family names, there are various versions of this surname as it spread throughout the world. Brown has been a common name in several countries for centuries, so it is crucial to begin researching your family's legacy with a good set of family stories and documents. Once you have them, you can begin your search to discover your family's place in the history of this large and notable family.

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The name Rodriguez is a common surname with a long history. In fact, approximately 9,213,157 people share this last name, making it the fifty-seventh most common family name in the world. The name is most prevalent in Mexico but also frequently appears in Spain, the United States, and throughout Latin America. We will explore the rich history of this family name, explain its origin and meaning, and share some interesting facts about the name. We will also highlight some famous people who share this family name.

The Meaning and Origin of the Rodriguez Family Name

The family name Rodriguez began as a patronymic name, which means it is derived from the father's name. “Son of Rodrigo” is a common translation of this family name. Although its origin is in Spain, its roots can be traced back to the Visigoths, a Germanic tribe that ruled Spain from the 5th to the 8th century.

Historians believe the name Rodriguez may also come from the German name “Hrodic,” which consists of “hrod,” meaning “renown,” and “ric,” meaning “power.” Rodriguez combines this personal name with the patronymic suffix “-ez,” which also means “a famous ruler.” Some historians translate the name as “powerful” or “famous ruler” because of the German root.

The name “Rodriguez” first appears in early records from the Spanish city of Castile. Nowadays, it is a common family name in Spain, and in Latin America, it is considered equivalent to the Portuguese name “Rodrigues.” Both names come from the same Germanic root.

Variations of the Rodriguez Family Name

Most family names dating back to the Middle Ages have multiple variations because scribes wrote names phonetically, following no set spelling rules. As a result, there are various spellings of the same name. When researching your family history, it is crucial to consider these spelling variations. They may reveal important details about your family that you might otherwise miss. Below are some of the most common variations of the Rodriguez family name.

• Rodrigue
• Rodriques
• Roderick
• Rodiger
• Rhodriquez
• Rodriguezz
• Roodriguez
• Roddriguez
• Hrodriguez
• Rodriguedz

Genealogy Resources for the Rodriguez Family Name

To research the Rodriguez family, you should explore the numerous online resources. The Ancestry website, in particular, provides over eleven million records related to this family. However, it is crucial to start your research with a strong foundation of information that is specific to your family. You should talk to your family members and obtain copies of any family records they may have.

Sharing your research online can also help other family researchers build on the collective family history. Additionally, you can try traditional search methods like visiting the library or historical societies, as not all genealogy records have been digitized. With that caveat, here are a few websites that can assist you in your research quest.

• Family Search — This website is similar to Ancestry but without the paywall. You can explore thousands of genealogy records relating to this name.
• Genealogy Page for Rodriguez Family — This forum provides valuable tips for people researching the Rodriguez family name.
• Geni — The Rodriguez Family Page — This website has approximately 5,157 users researching the Rodriguez family. Additionally, there are approximately 89,988 genealogy profiles with the Rodriguez family name.
• The Rodriguez DNA Project — For those seeking DNA information, the Rodriguez Family DNA Project is a helpful resource.

Finally, researching Hispanic, Latin, or Spanish names can present unique challenges, such as the order of family names, which varies around the world. Family researchers can greatly benefit from understanding the naming conventions of various cultures.

Fun Facts About the Rodriguez Family Name

Now that we understand the meaning and origins of this family name, here are some other interesting facts to consider.

• Rodriguez is the ninth most common family name in the United States.
• Rodriguez can also be a first name. In the United States, the name was most popular in 1981, with forty-seven babies receiving the name.
• According to data from 2014, the last name Rodriguez is held by one out of every fifty-two people in Mexico.
• In Spain, the frequency of this family name is one out of every forty-nine people.
• According to Worldnames, the top three most common first names for people named Rodriguez are Maria, Jose, and Juan.
• During the Middle Ages, the name Rodriguez was sometimes associated with individuals who had red hair.
• Based on the data from 23andme, this family name has a 44.2% Spanish and Portuguese and 25.2% Indigenous American ancestry.
• Forebears reports that 95.98% of people with this last name are registered as Democrats, compared to the national average of 53.23%.
• Between 1940 and 2004, the life expectancy for people with the family name Rodriguez in the United States fluctuated from forty-one years in 1940 to seventy years in 2004, according to Ancestry.
• A total of 31,280 people have the last name Rodrigues, according to the 2010 United States census. Rodrigues is a common Portuguese variation of Rodriguez.
• If you spell Rodriguez backward, it is Zeugirdor. We have no idea how to pronounce that.

Famous People with the Family Name Rodriguez

Due to its long history, it is no surprise that the family name Rodriguez has produced many famous people. Here are some of the most notable individuals with this last name.

• Alex Rodriguez — This baseball player, known by his nickname “A-Rod,” played for the Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees during his twenty-year career.
• Eliott Rodriguez — This Cuban-American news anchor won two Emmy Awards and four Edward R. Murrow awards.
• Freddy Rodriguez — This American actor is probably best known for his portrayal of Hector Federico “Rico” Diaz on HBO's “Six Feet Under.” He also appeared in the Robert Rodriguez movie Planet Terror and had a recurring role in the television series “Ugly Betty.”
• Gina Rodriguez — She played Beverly on the soap opera “The Bold and the Beautiful.” In 2014, she won a Golden Globe for her lead role in “Jane the Virgin.”
• Michelle Rodriguez — Famous for playing tough characters, Michelle Rodriguez stars in both “Resident Evil” and “The Fast and the Furious” film franchises.
• Paul Rodriguez — He is a Mexican-American actor and comedian who also raps and sings.
• Raini Rodriguez — This well-known American actress and singer played Trish in the Disney series “Austin & Ally.” She also appeared in the “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” movies.
• Rico Rodriguez — This American actor is famous for playing Manny Delgado in the television series “Modern Family.” He wrote a book called “Reel Life Lessons… So Far” in 2012.
• Robert Rodriguez — He is an American filmmaker best known for the movies “Sin City” and “From Dusk Till Dawn.”
• Sonia Rodriguez — This Canadian is a principal dancer with the National Ballet of Canada.

In Summary

Rodriguez is a very old family name with roots in Spain and among the Visigoths. It is a patronymic family name that means “son of Rodrigo” or represents the father in the family lineage. It is also a name associated with power and leadership. Due to extensive migration, the name is now prevalent worldwide, particularly in Mexico, Spain, and the United States.

If you are researching this family name, you are fortunate. There are many online resources available. However, to get the best use out of these resources, it is essential to begin your family research on a solid foundation because there are many branches of the Rodriguez family worldwide. Despite the wealth of data available, there is plenty left to discover about this illustrious family name and your family's place in its history.

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The last name Camacho is shared by approximately 694,325 people around the world. Most of these people live in Mexico, followed by Colombia and Venezuela. The name Camacho also appears in Spain and the United States. Although it is the 748th most common family name in the world, the origins of the name are somewhat mysterious. We will explore the history and meaning of the Camacho family name and reveal some interesting details about this family. We will also highlight some of the best-known people with this last name.

The Origin and Meaning of the Camacho Family Name

The family name “Camacho” originated in Old Spanish and Portuguese and means “bent” or “crooked.” It is also suggested that the name Camacho may be connected to a bird species, the linnet robin. Some researchers speculate that the name may have been used to describe a very thin or weak person.

In fact, some researchers believe the name goes back to the Middle Ages and may come from “camb,” the ancient Gaelic word for “disfigured.” The name “camb” was commonly used to describe someone with bow legs or a hunchback. While it sounds upsetting, this nickname was not meant to embarrass or label but was proudly passed down through generations. In this case, Camacho is a patronymic name because it is passed down through the father's ancestral line.

Initially, people in Spain were referred to by only one name, so Camacho began as a personal name. However, during the Middle Ages, two names were adopted to avoid confusion, and it evolved into a family name. The name was first found on Spain's Mediterranean coast in the city of Valencia.

As Spanish colonizers made their way into the Americas, they brought with them their culture and names. Camacho is among the many family names that spread throughout the region. Its continued use in Mexico and other countries such as Colombia, the United States, and Venezuela is a testament to the enduring legacy of Spanish influence in the region.

Notable Historical Figures with the Camacho Family Name

The first recorded historical figure named Camacho is a knight named Juan Camacho. Records note that he served King Jaime I of Aragón in Valencia from 1228 until 1245. As a result, King Jaime I was able to add lands from Valencia to his territory. Moreover, the Camacho family name appeared in the historical records of Almería and Murcia, Spain, after the use of two names became more common.

Additionally, some notable historical figures share this family name. Here is a list of this family's earliest and most notable members.

• Bartolome Camacho Zambrano was a Spanish military officer noted in 1510.
• Juana Camacho appears in a record of the family from June 2, 1662, in the Distrito Federal, Mexico.
• Antonio Camacho y Madueño was made Count of Robledo de Cardeña in 1772 in Spain.
• Heliodoro Camacho was a military officer from Bolivia in the 19th century.
• Juan Francisco Camacho was a prominent politician from Spain in the 19th century.

Variations of the Camacho Family Name

As you research your family history, you may encounter spelling variations of your family name, especially if it is an older and well-traveled name. It could be useful to consider alternative spellings when conducting your genealogical research. For instance, “Comacho” is a common Hispanic variation of the Spanish Camacho family name. Here are some variations that you might come across while researching your family name.

• Cámacho
• Camatcho
• Chamacho
• Camachos
• Cammacho
• Commacho
• Camatcha
• Chamhajo
• Kemachou
• Qamasho

It is important to note the significance of Spanish accent marks in distinguishing between words., even if the accent mark is the only apparent difference between two last names. For instance, two common variations of Camacho, Camachon and Camachón, are considered two separate spelling variations.

Researching the Camacho Family Name

If you are researching this family name, it is best to connect with your relatives and begin with a solid base of personal family history. Once you have enough data and records gathered from your family, you can begin filling in the missing details of your family history.

Today, there are many online resources available. The Ancestry website has over 977,000 records for the Camacho family, including immigration and marriage records, census data, and military histories. Additionally, DNA websites have made huge contributions to family researchers. And, of course, remember records are waiting to be digitized. Consider visiting your local library or historical society to do some old-school research.

You may find the following websites helpful in your genealogical research.

• Camacho Family Forum — This family forum may help researchers find missing information about family members.
• Genealogy of Mexico — Although this website may appear overwhelming at first, it contains a wealth of useful information and links for your research.
• My Heritage — This website offers you the opportunity to create your family tree for free and connect with other researchers.
• The University of Texas — Benson Latin American Collection – The University of Texas Library collection has over 970,000 books, periodicals, pamphlets, and microforms. It also hosts the Bexar Archives, a valuable resource for those researching Hispanic history in Texas. You can find much of the information online or request assistance from the librarians. It may also be worth a visit in person if you are close by.

Finally, it may be beneficial to understand the naming order of Hispanic names.

Interesting Facts About the Camacho Family Name

Here are some interesting details you may not know about the Camacho family name.

• There are 254,019 people in Mexico who share this family name, which means that on average, one person in every 489 has it.
• In the United States, the number of people with the Camacho name grew by 122,860% between 1880 and 2014, according to Forebears.
• According to United States census data from 1940, approximately twenty-one percent of Camacho men held jobs as laborers, while thirty-two percent of Camacho women had no occupation.
• Between 1955 and 2003, the life expectancy for the name Camacho in the United States increased from twenty-eight years to forty-nine years, reaching its lowest point in 1971 and the highest in 1992.
• Forebears reports that 95.38% of the Camacho family in the US are Democrats, significantly higher than the national average of 53.23%.
• In the 2010 census, 89.5% of Camacho family members (approximately 60,805 people) identified themselves as Hispanic.
• Three of the most popular first names for Camacho are Juan, Francisco, and Maria.
• Don Quixote de La Mancha, the epic Spanish novel by Cervantes, features a character named Camacho.

Famous People with the Camacho Family Name

Now that we know more about the origin and meaning of this name, here are some famous people who bear the last name Camacho.

• Carlos Camacho — He was the first democratically elected Governor of Guam and the last civilian to hold the office. He served for four years, from 1971 to 1975.
• Christian Camacho — This American soccer player of Colombian descent currently plays for New Amsterdam FC in the National Independent Soccer Association.
• Héctor Camacho — This Puerto Rican boxer, nicknamed “Macho Camacho,” was a world boxing champion in three different weight classes.
• Lidia Camacho — She is a well-known scientist, teacher, and public official in Mexico.
• Thelma Camacho — This American opera singer also performed rock music with the First Edition and the New Christy Minstrels.

In Summary

Medieval Spain and possibly Portugal are likely the origins of the Camacho family name. The name has several possible meanings, including “bent” or “crooked”. Nowadays, this name is most common in Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela. It also frequently appears in Hispanic communities in the United States.

If you wish to research the Camacho family name, you will find a vast array of information online, including historical and census records, forums, and family trees. Despite the abundance of online information, the Camacho family history is still mysterious. There is still much to learn about this unique name.

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The surname Gyatt is not very common, in fact, only one person out of every 260,269,497 people in the world has the family name Gyatt. This family name is most commonly found in the United States, but it can also be found in other countries like Indonesia, Nigeria, Canada, and India. If you have this family name or if you are researching it, we can help you by exploring its origins and meaning. In addition, we will provide some tips for genealogy research and suggest some of the best genealogy websites.

The Meaning and Origin of the Gyatt Family Name

After the Norman conquest of England in 1066, the Gyatt family name arrived from France. This name was originally a nickname or pet name for someone with the name Gui, Guido, or Guy. The family name was first recorded in Sussex, England, and is still found in West Sussex, as well as in Scotland.

However, other resources suggest that the Gyatt family name stems from the medieval given names “Wiot,” “Wyot,” and “Giot.” These names were related to “Wigheard,” which was an Old English personal name meaning “war” and “brave and strong.” It is possible that the name was given to a family of brave and strong warriors.

The family had a motto, which initially emerged as a war cry and appeared on the family coat of arms. The Gyatt family motto is “Duriora virtus,” which translates to “Virtue tries harder things.”

Challenges in Researching the Gyatt Family Name

During the Middle Ages, when the name Gyatt originated, there were no standardized grammatical rules in place. As a result, scribes used phonetics to sound out words. Spelling words phonetically commonly led to many spelling variations of the same family name. As a result, members of the same family may have different last names.

The family name Guyat has the same origin as Gyatt, and it stems from the diminutives of the Old French personal name Guy. The name Guy itself is also a family name. So, all three of these family names may provide clues to a researcher's family history.

Additionally, immigration records often contain misspelled family names, which can result in the creation of new last names. This causes more spelling variations and additional confusion for people researching their family history.

To add further complexity, people sometimes change their names upon arriving in a new country. Changing one's last name was often done to assimilate better into the new culture or to avoid discrimination. These name changes can also make it challenging for people to trace their family history accurately.

If you are researching your family history, be prepared to conduct thorough research, including checking various spellings of family names and cross-referencing different sources of information. It is also essential to keep an open mind and be prepared to uncover interesting stories and unexpected twists in your family history.

Variations of the Gyatt Family Name

With all of that in mind, here are some common spelling variations of the Gyatt family name.

• Wyatt
• Guyatt
• Gyat
• Ghyatte
• Ghyat
• Gyate
• Dyatt
• Hyatt
• Gatt
• Glatt

Other possible variations include Gulati, Guyette, and Myatt.

Researching the Gyatt Family Name

The internet is a valuable tool for researching family history, particularly with the advent of DNA websites such as 23andMe and Ancestry. However, it is essential to begin the research with a clear goal in mind and an organized approach. 

Start by gathering information about what you already know about your family history. Moreover, talk to other family members who may have additional information. It is vital to document everything and keep backup copies of important genealogy documents such as birth certificates, military records, and family letters. 

When experiencing research blocks, considering spelling variations can be beneficial. Sharing one's findings online can also help other family researchers who are also experiencing trouble with their research. 

When conducting research, do not forget to consider traditional resources like historical sites and library archives. There are still many records that have not been digitized yet. Many libraries have dedicated genealogy collections that could prove to be helpful.

Helpful Websites for Researching the Gyatt Family Name

We recommend the following websites for researching this family name.

• Find My Past – UK – Find My Past is a genealogy website based in the UK. The site contains 382 records for the Gyatt family name and about 15,000 family trees that include the name.
• My Heritage – My Heritage is a website similar to the popular Ancestry website. However, it is a completely free genealogy resource. It has approximately 3,121 records for the Gyatt family, including 999 family trees and 850 birth and marriage records.
• Geni – This genealogy forum can connect you to other family researchers. There are currently twenty-seven genealogy profiles for Gyatt family members.
• Find a Grave – Find a Grave is helpful in locating beloved family members and finding out more about your family history.

Ancestry also has a UK-based genealogy website that may be useful for this family name. It has approximately 3000 records for the Gyatt family name.

Interesting Facts About the Gyatt Family Name

Now that we know the origin and meaning of the Gyatt family name, here are other interesting facts to consider.

• The phonetic spelling of Gyatt is “Gee-yat.” However, How to Pronounce offers thirty audio pronunciations on their website.
• Through marriage, the Gyatt family has a connection to the Cullen and Morrell families.
• Gyatt is a rare family name in the United Kingdom because it does not appear in the top 1000 UK surnames.
• The Gyatt family's most common first names are John, William, Elizabeth, and Mary.
• The average salary for individuals with this family name in the United States is $42,075, slightly lower than the national average of $43,149.
• The majority of people with the Gyatt last name live in North America, with 85% residing in Anglo-North America.
• From 1840 to 1920, the Gyatt family lived in the United States and the United Kingdom. In 1891, most Gyatt families were in the United Kingdom. In 1840, only one Gyatt family lived in New York, the sole mention of the Gyatt family in that year's census.
• Between 1975 and 1978, the average lifespan of Gyatt family members increased from ninety to ninety-five years, according to the Social Security Death Index (SSDI).
• According to census data from 1939, seventy-five percent of women in the Gyatt family in the United Kingdom worked in Unpaid Domestic Duties. Unfortunately, there is no available data for the United States during the same time period.
• USS Gyatt was a US Navy Gearing-class destroyer named after Marine Edward Earl Gyatt. Commissioned in 1945, it was later converted into a guided missile destroyer in 1955. The ship was decommissioned and sunk as a target in 1970.

In Summary

The Gyatt family name is an uncommon last name that dates back to the Norman invasion of England in 1066. It was introduced to England from France and was used as a nickname for someone named Guy, Gui, or Guido. The name is also related to the Old English name “Wigheard,” which means “strong and brave” and “war.”

Although the name has medieval English roots, it is now most prevalent in the United States, with some presence in other countries such as India. Due to its rarity, finding online resources regarding the name may be challenging despite the abundance of information available. Therefore, consulting traditional research methods like library archives and collaborating with other researchers could be helpful. There is still much to uncover about this unique family name.

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Do you have trouble deciding on a new rug for your house? One common mistake people make is selecting rugs that are the wrong size or too small for the room. We are here to help! In this guide, we will provide you with tips on how to choose the right kind of rug for your living room, dining room, or bedroom. We will also offer advice on selecting the appropriate size and texture. Lastly, you can save or print our rug chart for future reference.

How to Choose the Right Area Rug: The Basics

When choosing an area rug for a room, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the size of the room and the size of the rug you will need. Make sure the rug is large enough to anchor the space and create a cohesive look. Choosing a rug that is too small is a common mistake.

Next, consider the style of the room and the color palette. You can choose a rug that complements the existing décor or adds a pop of color and interest to the space. If you have patterned furniture or wallpaper, you might want to choose a solid-colored rug to balance the look.

The material of the rug is also important. Wool rugs are durable and long-lasting, while synthetic materials like nylon or polyester are more affordable and easy to clean. If you have pets or children, you may want a stain-resistant rug that is quick and effortless to clean.

Finally, think about the texture of the rug. A plush, shaggy rug can add a cozy feel to a room, while a flat-weave rug can create a more modern look. Ultimately, the goal is to choose a rug that fits your style and makes you feel happy and comfortable in your space.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Area Rug

Selecting the perfect area rug can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can also be an exciting and easy process. Here are some things to consider when choosing your rugs and arranging them in your home.

• Consider the placement of the rug in the room. When you choose an area rug for a room, make sure that it compliments the overall aesthetic of the space while also serving a functional purpose. Remember that the rug should act as a focal point of the room, so you need to center it properly. To achieve this, consider the shape and size of the room, as well as the furniture placement.
• When choosing a rug for a room, it is important to not only consider the size of the room but also how the furniture will be arranged around the rug. To avoid any confusion, we recommend that you use tape to outline the area where the rug will be placed before moving the furniture.
• A larger area rug can create an illusion of a larger space, particularly in the living room. However, it is crucial to measure the area to ensure that the rug size is appropriate for the room. An oversized rug can dominate the space, while a small one can look out of place.
• When selecting the location for your area rug, make sure that you have an equal amount of floor space on all sides of the rug. Doing so will help to create a balanced look, with the rug appearing centered in the room. Ideally, you should aim for around eighteen inches of clearance, although this may vary depending on the size of the room. In general, anywhere between eight to twenty-four inches of clearance should be sufficient to achieve a centered appearance.
• Make sure the area rugs you place in high-traffic areas are sturdy and easy to clean. If you select a rug that cannot be easily cleaned, you might have to replace the entire rug, which can be costly. Furthermore, avoid placing expensive or fragile area rugs in places where they can become easily stained or damaged by wear.
• When choosing an area rug pad, consider both the cushioning and floor protection. A rug pad can help prevent rugs from slipping and provide some needed cushion on hardwood floors. We recommend purchasing a rug pad that is slightly larger than your area rug and then trimming it down to ensure a perfect fit.

How to Choose the Right Size Area Rug for Each Room

When choosing rugs for a room, the first thing to consider is how many you need. For small rooms, one rug may be sufficient, but for larger rooms, multiple rugs can be beneficial. This is especially true for open-space homes where using multiple rugs can help define the different areas. For example, a large area may benefit from using rugs to differentiate the living room from the dining area. Moreover, rugs can make a room feel more comfortable and less bare.

When selecting a rug, it is important to consider the size. One of the most common mistakes people make is choosing a rug that is too small for their room. It is advisable to invest in a good quality, larger rug rather than a smaller, cheaper one.

Here are the common sizes of standard area rugs in feet.

• 3×5
• 4×6
• 5×8
• 6×9 (formerly 8×10)
• 9×12

Our rug chart can help you choose the best size area rug for your space, based on your décor and the available space.

Choosing the Best Area Rug for Each Room

Here are some additional expert tips for decorating each room with the perfect area rug.

• Living room — It is ideal to place furniture on top of area rugs, especially in bigger rooms. However, this may not always be feasible. It is generally better to have the rug slightly under the furniture than to have it barely touching it. The doors in the room should also be taken into account while selecting the thickness of the rug.
• Dining Room — Choose a rug for the dining room that fits the table and chairs. The rug should be large enough to accommodate the table and allow for chairs to be pulled out. One common rule followed by decorators is to add twenty-four inches to all sides of the dining room table, as this typically results in the ideal rug size for the space.
• Bedroom — For the bedroom, go as large as your space and budget allow while maintaining a foot between the rug and the wall. If the rug doesn't cover the entire floor, make sure that it extends far enough out along the sides and at the end of the bed. Additionally, consider the furniture proportions. Experts advise that your rug should be six inches larger than your largest piece of furniture. Additionally, the longer side of a bedroom area rug should be parallel with the headboard and footboard of the bed.

In Summary

When it comes to area rugs, usually bigger is better than smaller. It is also important to consider both the size of your room and furniture when choosing the right area rug. You should also think about the amount of traffic and wear and tear the rug will endure, as this will help you select the best quality rug that will work well in your space.

Since area rugs come in standard sizes, our guide can assist you in selecting the best size for your living room, dining room, or bedroom. Make sure to save or print the guide to help you on your next rug-shopping trip. Happy decorating!

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One of the easiest ways to cook corn on the cob is using the microwave. In just a few minutes, the whole family can savor delicious and juicy corn by following a few simple steps. All you need is a microwave-safe plate, a small amount of water, and, of course, a microwave. Once you perfect our method of steaming corn in the microwave, you can cook up to four ears of corn at a time, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare for small groups of people.

Mastering the Microwave Method

Here are step-by-step instructions for microwaving delicious corn on the cob. Also, do not forget to save our recipe below.

• Start by placing the corn cobs on a microwave-safe plate.
• Add a small amount of water to the plate to create steam. Loosely cover the cobs with a microwave-safe cover or plastic wrap. You can also cover the corn loosely with paper towels.
• Microwave the corn on high for about four to five minutes per corn cob. You do not need to remove the husk. In fact, leaving it on helps the corn to steam better.
• Let the corn sit for a minute or two after microwaving to allow for even cooking.

Be cautious when you remove the corn from the microwave, as it will be hot. Once it cools, enjoy your steamed corn on the cob.

Is It Better to Boil or Microwave Corn on the Cob?

Every cooking method has its pros and cons. Microwaving corn on the cob allows you to focus on the main dish if the corn is a side dish. It is also convenient for preparing up to four ears of corn without needing to boil a whole pot of water. However, boiling is the best option for cooking large batches of corn on the cob.

How Long Do You Microwave Corn on the Cob?

A full-sized ear of corn is approximately eight inches long and should be microwaved for about four minutes. If the corn is frozen, microwave it for at least five minutes. You do not need to pre-soak or husk the corn before microwaving. In fact, microwaving corn with the husk on allows the corn to steam within the husk itself.

It is important to mention that every microwave is different. Higher-wattage microwaves may cook corn faster, so you may need to experiment to find the perfect timing and prevent overcooking or undercooking the corn.

Does Microwaved Corn on the Cob Taste Good?

The short answer is yes. When you cook corn using this method, the corn steams in its own natural juices, preserving its natural flavor and not absorbing any additional flavors from its husk.

As a result, many people prefer microwaving corn on the cob because it produces tender and delicious kernels with very little effort. However, some may miss the charred or grilled flavor from other cooking methods, such as grilling or boiling. Nevertheless, microwaving is a convenient and quick way to cook corn on the cob, especially when your time is limited or when you are cooking for a small number of people.

Nevertheless, we should mention that the freshness of the corn and the microwave's wattage can significantly affect the outcome. Experiment with your microwave and adjust cooking times for the best corn on the cob. Moreover, always use fresh corn, and do not be afraid to experiment with butter and seasonings.

Final Thoughts

When cooking for a small group or in a time crunch, microwaving corn on the cob is one of the best and fastest methods. Cooking the corn in its husk allows it to steam more evenly, resulting in a delicious, pure corn flavor.

Cooking corn this way also allows you to focus on the main dish if corn is a side dish. Once you have perfected making corn on the cob in the microwave, it may become your go-to method because it is so quick and easy. No one has to know unless you want to share your cooking secret. We promise not to tell anyone.

How to Microwave Corn on the Cob

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
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Description

Cooking corn on the cob in the microwave is quick and easy.

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Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn on the cob
• Water
• Salt (optional)
• Butter (optional)

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Instructions

1. Start by husking the corn, removing the outer leaves and silk strands. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.

2. Place the ears of corn in a microwave-safe dish or plate. You can either cook them individually or stack them, depending on the size of your microwave and dish. If stacking, make sure the corn is arranged in a single layer.

3. Add about 1/4 cup of water to the dish. The water will create steam, which helps cook the corn evenly. If desired, you can also sprinkle a pinch of salt over the corn for flavor.

4. Cover the dish loosely with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. Leave a small vent to allow steam to escape.

5. Microwave the corn on high power for 4-6 minutes per ear, depending on the wattage of your microwave and the desired level of doneness. Start with 4 minutes for crisp-tender corn and increase the cooking time if needed.

6. Carefully remove the dish from the microwave using oven mitts or a towel to avoid burns. The dish and steam will be hot.

7. Let the corn sit for a minute or two before removing the plastic wrap or lid. Be careful of any steam that may escape when you uncover the dish.

8. Serve the corn on the cob hot, optionally with butter and additional salt to taste.

Notes

The total cooking time for four ears of corn is 16 to 24 minutes, with each ear requiring 4 to 6 minutes.

• Prep Time: 5-7 minutes
• Cook Time: Cooking time per ear: 4 to 6 minutes

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Esin Deniz/Shutterstock.com.

The post How to Microwave Corn on the Cob appeared first on Moms Who Think.

One of Olive Garden's most popular menu items is the hearty and comforting Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This delicious, creamy soup features tender pieces of roasted chicken, soft traditional Italian dumplings, and flavorful spinach.

While enjoying this soup with Olive Garden's endless breadsticks is great, you can easily replicate this recipe at home and feed the entire family for less money. Furthermore, if you are short on time, you can use rotisserie or leftover chicken and store-bought gnocchi for this recipe. We promise it will taste just as good as the Olive Garden original.

How Popular Is Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Unlike many of today's restaurants, Olive Garden was established as a chain restaurant in 1982 rather than starting as an individual restaurant. The Italian family-themed chain restaurant experienced almost immediate success.

Olive Garden was initially famous for its unlimited salad helpings. Eventually, the restaurant began offering unlimited soups and breadsticks as well. No one is quite sure when its Chicken Gnocchi Soup first appeared on the menu. However, this savory soup has gained such popularity that people have been trying to recreate this hearty dish using online recipes since 2010.

In a recent Mashed poll, Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup was ranked as the second most popular item on their menu, surpassing even some of their most well-known entrées. Furthermore, many people order this soup as an entrée because it is so filling and delicious.

What Ingredients Are In Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Olive Garden does not disclose the exact ingredients of this popular soup, but it does list some basic ingredients. Chicken, potato gnocchi dumplings, and a medley of vegetables such as onions, celery, and carrots are all simmered together in a flavorful chicken broth. The soup is enriched with heavy cream. Spinach is also a key ingredient in this soup, while garlic, thyme, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper provide well-balanced seasoning. Our copycat recipe incorporates these ingredients to replicate Olive Garden's soup as closely as possible.

Nutritional Information

While the calories aren't too offensive, the sodium count in Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup is through the roof, which is one more reason to make it at home yourself. Here's a quick peek at the nutrition facts:

• Calories: 230
• Total Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 1290mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 22g
• Protein: 11g

Can I Make My Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup in a Slow Cooker?

You can definitely make this copycat soup in a slow cooker. We suggest using cooked, diced chicken. You will also need to sauté the garlic and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.

Using the ingredients and portions specified in the recipe below, follow these steps to prepare this Olive Garden copycat soup in a slow cooker.

• Place the garlic and vegetables in the bottom of your slow cooker.
• Next, add the liquids and all the other ingredients except the gnocchi, heavy cream, and spinach. You will add these three ingredients just before serving.
• Cook this soup on low for three to four hours.
• Add the gnocchi during the last hour of cooking.
• Before serving, add the half-and-half and spinach, which should wilt quickly.

Finally, enjoy your copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Tips for Making the Best Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Follow these simple tips to create the best version of our copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home.

• Use high-quality plain potato gnocchi for the best texture and flavor.
• If you are adventurous, you can make your own gnocchi.
• Cornstarch can thicken soup. If you need to thicken your copycat soup, whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with some broth before adding it to the simmering soup.
• We recommend using fresh spinach in this recipe rather than frozen spinach. Unfortunately, frozen spinach will likely become mushy in this soup. The fresh spinach added at the end wilts immediately but stays fresh and light since it will not overcook.

Helpful Chicken Tips for Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Since chicken is a key ingredient, here are some specific chicken tips for preparing this copycat soup recipe.

• We recommend using pre-cooked, diced, boneless, skinless chicken for easier preparation. If cooking yourself, dice the chicken before cooking for quicker cooking time. Cook in olive oil until done, then season the chicken with salt and pepper.
• You can also buy pre-shredded, cooked chicken from the supermarket. It is pricier but more convenient. It is worth noting that using shredded chicken instead of cubed chicken will change the texture of the soup.
• Another option is to shred a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Many grocery stores reduce the price of rotisserie chicken at the end of the day. As a result, you might be able to find it at a discount just before closing time.

What to Serve With Your Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

While this hearty soup is satisfying by itself, you might want to consider adding some sides to complement your homemade Olive Garden-style soup. Here are some ideas for sides that would make great additions to your meal.

• Bread Rolls – Instead of breadsticks, try this soup with Mama Shirley's bread rolls.
• Salads – Soup and salad is a classic combination. Try this copycat soup with our Cherry Tomato Salad. For a taste of Italy and a hearty meal, try pairing this soup with this Pizza Salad recipe.
• Desserts – If you are ready to go straight to dessert, try our Lemon Raspberry Tiramisu Parfaits. Or perhaps this quick and easy Tiramisu recipe. Finally, for those watching their calories, we offer 12 decadent dessert options, each under 300 calories.

If you are feeling really hungry and need more than just sides, we have several options. Consider pairing this soup with our Easy Lasagna recipe. Or perhaps this one-pan Healthy Italian Vegetable Bake is more your speed. 

And, of course, you can never go wrong with a delicious Chicken Parmesan that the whole family will love. If you need more Olive Garden food, try some of these other Olive Garden recipes to pair with your soup. This soup would be great with Olive Garden's bruschetta or vegetable lasagna.

How to Store Leftovers of Your Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

After the soup has cooled to room temperature, store it in airtight containers. You can keep this soup in the refrigerator for up to a week. Furthermore, store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth if needed.

Final Thoughts

When you do not feel like making the trip to Olive Garden and dining out with the whole family, you can prepare a satisfying copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home. Not only is it a convenient alternative, but it is also much cheaper than dining at the popular chain restaurant. Yes, even with the unlimited breadsticks.

If you are short on time, you can make this soup without compromising on flavor by using pre-cooked chicken and store-bought gnocchi. If you are a fan of slow cooking, you can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker with a few simple adjustments. However you choose to prepare this tasty copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you will feel like you are dining at the restaurant as the whole family requests unlimited servings.

Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: 6-8 servings

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Description

This copycat recipe reproduces the delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup from Olive Garden.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer.

6. Add the potato gnocchi to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-4 minutes until they float to the surface.

7. Once the gnocchi are cooked, add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until wilted.

8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

9. Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes

The image featured at the top of this post is ©AS Foodstudio/Shutterstock.com.

The post Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Copycat Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Castles were important for defense and attack during the Middle Ages. As a result, they were significant landmarks in many towns and cities. Nowaday, the word “castle” invokes images of luxury and royalty.

Over time, the name Castle became a common family name in England, Ireland, and Scotland. We will delve into the meaning, origin, and history of the Castle family name. Additionally, we will provide suggestions for researching this name and highlight famous individuals who share the Castle family name.

The Meaning and Origin of the Castle Family Name

The Castle family name has its origins in the Anglo-Saxon tribes of Great Britain. Researchers believe that the name comes from the Old Norman French word “castel,” meaning “castle.” Additionally, some researchers suggest that the name also derives from the Latin word “castellum,” which refers to someone who lived near a castle. In Ireland, Castle may be an Anglicized form of the Irish name “Ó Caisil.”

The family name Castle is a topographic family name, which means it is a last name that denotes a place. It was used to identify individuals who were either employed in a castle or held positions such as governor or constable within a castle. Additionally, it may have referred to people who lived on the land near a castle.

Notable Historical Figures with the Castle Family Name

The Castle family name was first recorded in Sussex, England, in 1148 when Richard and Robert Castel were recorded as the descendants of the Lords of Iystynton. Later, in 1201, John Castle lived on estates in Leicestershire, England. Other early notables of the Castle family include John Castell (1380-1426), an English scholar who served as the Master of University College, Oxford. Historians also note Edmund Castle (1698-1750), who hailed from Kent and served as the Master of Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, and Dean of Hereford.

Immigration records reveal that members of the family immigrated to the United States and Canada during the nineteenth century. Interestingly, many members of the Castle family were sent to Australia, which was a penal colony at that time. Thousands of English convicts were shipped off to Australia, such as Mr. Thomas Castle, a convict who was sentenced to life in prison during a trial in London. He was transported aboard a ship called the “Baring” in December 1818, arriving in New South Wales, Australia.

How Common Is the Castle Family Name?

The website Forebears estimates that there are approximately 48,651 people around the world who share the Castle family name. Here is some further data on this family name.

• Forebears states that there are 1,430 people in the United States with the Castle last name. However, the 2010 U.S. census put the number at 1,744.
• In Australia, approximately 5,185 people have the name Castle, making it the 754th most commonly used family name.
• In New Zealand, Castle is the 996th most popular family name, with an estimated 758 people bearing it.
• The last name Castle is used by 7,304 people in the United Kingdom, ranking 956th.

The Falkland Islands have the highest density of people with this family name. The name also appears in South Africa, New Zealand, and Iran.

Variations of the Castle Family Name

Many family names that date back to the Middle Ages have multiple spelling variations. Scholars during that time sounded out words phonetically because there were no spelling rules, which resulted in many names being written down incorrectly.

Moreover, as people migrated worldwide, spelling errors on official documents also led to the creation of new family names. Sometimes, people changed the spelling of their names after immigration to make them easier to pronounce or to blend in with their new surroundings.

When researching your family history, it is helpful to know the most common variations of your family name. Below are some of the most common variations of the Castle family name.

• Cästle
• Castles
• Castile
• Castley
• Castler
• Castele
• Casttle
• Casstle
• Castlle
• Scastle

Moreover, there are variations of the Castle family name in different languages, including Castell (Catalan), Castelo (Portuguese), and Castillo (Spanish).

Researching the Castle Family Name

If you are researching this family name, here are some helpful tips for your genealogical research.

• When researching your family history, start with what you know.
• Organize family records, photos, birth, marriage, and death certificates. Furthermore, research military and census records. Census records are especially helpful for genealogy research because they contain the names, ages, and occupations of family members.
• Not all genealogy records have been digitized despite the abundance of resources available online. That is why we recommend a visit to your local library. Libraries often have extensive genealogy collections and research librarians to assist with research.
• Share your discoveries online to help other researchers. Doing so will also connect you with other family historians.

For helpful tips and resources on researching family names, the National Archives offers a wealth of documents and guidelines. If you are interested in DNA research, the Castle Family Tree DNA Project is a helpful resource. This group is actively researching the paternal DNA lines of men with the Castle family name.

Interesting Facts About the Castle Family Name

After exploring the history of the Castle family name, here are some interesting facts about this name that you may not know.

• In the United States, the Castle family name is primarily found in California, Texas, and Kentucky.
• Historical records reveal that it was common for members of the Castle family to marry into the Smith and Johnson families.
• John, William, Mary, and Elizabeth are among the most common first names for Castle in historical records.
• Experts believe that Ötzi The Iceman may be linked to the paternal lineage of the Castle family.
• According to the DNA website 23andMe, people with the Castle family name may be at a higher risk for Celiac disease.
• According to the 1940 US Census, 21% of men named Castle were farmers, while 12% of women worked as stenographers.
• Sixty-two percent of the Castle family in the US identify as Republicans, which is 15.25% higher than the national average.
• Nathan Fillion played Richard Castle, a fictional character and bestselling mystery novelist, in the TV series Castle. Writer Tim Straw wrote a series of bestselling tie-in mystery novels under the Richard Castle pseudonym.
• Francis “Frank” Castle is the real name of the Marvel comics character The Punisher.

Famous People with the Castle Family Name

Here are some of the most notable people who share the Castle last name.

• Amy Castle – Amy is an American actress known for her roles in Passions and Ally McBeal.
• Andrew Castle – Formerly a tennis champion, he is now a British television presenter.
• Diane Castle – Her performances in the films Planes, Trains & Automobiles, and Rapid Fire made her famous.
• James Castle – This graphic designer who worked on The X-Files and Cheers won three Primetime Emmy Awards.
• John Castle – He was an English film actor, best known for his role in the film The Lion in Winter.
• Michael Castle – An American lawyer and politician, he was the 69th Governor of Delaware and served as a Republican U.S. representative from Delaware's at-large congressional district.
• Nick Castle – This actor and director played Michael Myers in the 1978 movie Halloween.
• William Castle – This eccentric filmmaker is now famous for his low-budget cult horror films, such as The House on Haunted Hill.

In Summary

The Castle family name dates back to the Middle Ages when it was used as a last name for people who lived in or near castles. Initially, it was most common in Great Britain, particularly England, Ireland, and Scotland. Today, it is most commonly found in the United States. Moreover, there are many spelling and language variations of the Castle name.

If you are researching the Castle family name, we recommend starting with what you know before moving on to genealogy websites. Also, consider visiting the library because libraries have extensive genealogy records that may not be available online. We also recommend sharing your family research online to help out other genealogists. You may even connect with new family members. Despite its long history, there is still much left to discover about the Castle family name.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©MeganBrady/Shutterstock.com.

The post Castle: Family Name, Meaning, History, and More appeared first on Moms Who Think.

To better understand astrology, you need to understand that each zodiac sign has a planetary ruler and element and is assigned a cardinal, fixed, or mutable modality. It will also help you understand your zodiac sign's personality traits and tendencies better. We will delve into the specific details of each sign and also examine the influence of the four elements on each zodiac sign. To remember your zodiac sign's ruling planet and modality, you can save or print out our free zodiac sign chart.

Free Zodiac Sign Ruling Planet and Modality Chart

The Four Elements: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water

Let us start by understanding the four elements that are associated with each zodiac sign. Each sign is assigned a specific element that reflects the nature of that particular sign. Once we have a clear understanding of these elements, we can move on to exploring the planetary influences and modalities of each zodiac. Here is a breakdown of each element and the signs that belong to each one.

• Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) – Fire signs are energetic and have dynamic personalities. They are famously bold, love adventure, and are not afraid of expressing themselves. Furthermore, they tend to be leaders, often taking the initiative in life.
• Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) – Practical and grounded, Earth signs focus on the material aspects of life. They are reliable and value stability and security. Overall, they exhibit a down-to-earth mindset and are extremely practical.
• Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) – Always rational and objective, Air signs approach life with a cerebral and intellectual mindset. They are extremely sociable and thrive in social settings. However, they also spend a lot of time lost in thought.
• Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) – Water signs are famous for their intuition, emotional depth, and empathy. They are often daydreamers and take comfort in art and beauty. Additionally, other people's emotions easily affect these signs.

Modality of the Zodiac Signs: Cardinal, Fixed, Mutable

In astrology, each zodiac sign has a specific modality that reflects your approach toward life, how you interact with the world, and your purpose in life. While the element of each sign represents its fundamental nature, the modalities demonstrate how they express themselves. Let us examine the three modalities and the corresponding signs for each.

Cardinal: Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn

The cardinal signs initiate each season, with Aries starting spring, Cancer starting summer, Libra starting fall, and Capricorn starting winter. People born under these signs are dynamic, energetic, and ambitious, often taking the lead in various situations. However, cardinal individuals may struggle to complete projects. They enthusiastically start projects but may lose interest or move on to new ones before finishing the current ones. This tendency is due to the cardinal signs' impulsive and action-oriented natures.

Fixed: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius

Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius are the zodiac signs with a fixed modality. These signs approach their lives with a strong sense of determination and work steadily towards achieving their goals. Unlike the cardinal signs that may start several projects but tend to leave them unfinished, the fixed signs are more likely to see things through to completion.

Furthermore, self-confidence and self-reliance characterize the fixed signs. They often appear as pillars of strength due to their unwavering determination and ability to get things done. However, these signs are also famous for their stubbornness and are incredibly resistant to change.

Mutable: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces are the four mutable signs of the zodiac. They are known as the chameleons of the zodiac due to their ability to blend in with their surroundings effortlessly. Their adaptable nature allows them to accept change rather than resist it. They possess remarkable resilience, and they can overcome obstacles by finding solutions and turning setbacks into opportunities. Mutable individuals are curious and open-minded, and they love acquiring new knowledge.

However, mutable individuals may have a strong inclination to please others, which causes them to compromise their own needs in relationships. Others often perceive them as indecisive due to their tendency to be agreeable. Additionally, they may feel unhappy because they find it difficult to assert themselves.

Planetary Chart Rulers

Your planetary chart ruler is determined by which zodiac sign rules the Ascendant, sometimes called the Rising or Sun sign in your birth chart. The Ascendant sign is the zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the time of your birth. Even casual astrologers tend to know this zodiac sign. Moreover, it represents your outward personality and how you present yourself to the world. Let us delve into the planetary rulership of every zodiac sign.

Aries Chart Ruler: Mars

Aries element and modality: Fire and Cardinal

The zodiac sign Aries feels confident and ambitious under the influence of Mars, which is known as the planet of action and passion. However, it is crucial to remember that Mars is also the God of War, and its influence can lead to destructive tendencies. Aries, being the first sign in the zodiac, is always ready to move forward when Mars enters its sphere. As an Aries, it is natural to feel more impulsive or spontaneous, but it is also essential to consider the feelings of others. Mars can trigger more of your reckless or irresponsible instincts.

Taurus and Libra Chart Ruler: Venus

Taurus – Element and Modality: Earth and Fixed

Libra – Element and Modality: Air and Cardinal

Venus is not just the planet of love; it also governs pleasure, relationships, self-worth, and finances. It is associated with beauty, especially in the arts, and teaches us to appreciate and revel in the beauty that surrounds us.

In Taurus, Venus is expressed as an appreciation for the finer things in life. Being an Earth sign with a fixed modality, Taurus is also a romantic sign but takes a slow and steady approach to romance. The Taurus enjoys courting and values comfort and loyalty in their romantic relationships above all else.

For Libra, which is a Cardinal Air sign, Venus manifests in the diplomatic and peaceful nature of this zodiac sign. Libras are natural negotiators and use their connections with others to promote the greater good. Like Taurus, they also appreciate art. Additionally, they tend to possess natural grace and style that others admire.

Gemini and Virgo Chart Ruler: Mercury

Gemini – Element and Modality: Air and Mutable

Virgo: Element and Modality: Earth and Mutable

Mercury rules communication, the intellect, logic, and reasoning. All manners of communication fall under Mercury's domain, giving both of these signs excellent communication skills no matter how they choose to express themselves. Mercury's energy is expressed in two ways. As the ruler of Gemini, Mercury symbolizes conceptual thinking. As the ruler of Virgo, Mercury represents practical knowledge.

For Gemini, Mercury gives this sign its love of conversation and quick-witted responses. Additionally, Gemini has an insatiable curiosity and loves to share information, whether it is gossip or the latest cultural news. On the flip side, Mercury can also make the Gemini a bit nosy and perhaps overly verbose sometimes. However, if these traits can be contained, Mercury is a positive influence on Gemini.

For the Virgo, Mercury manifests as organization and planning. Mercury gives this zodiac sign some clarity and helps them be productive, which is when they are happiest. It also gives them a laser-sharp focus, so their attention to detail is impressive. However, just as with Gemini, it can give them some negative traits, such as fussiness and a tendency to be pedantic. Self-awareness can help temper these proclivities.

Cancer Chart Ruler: The Moon

Cancer- Element and Modality: Water and Cardinal

The Moon governs our emotional worlds, and as a chart ruler, it magnifies Cancer's innate creativity, nurturing tendencies, and intuitive nature. The Cancer personality has a strong inclination to not only take care of themselves, but also of others. Cancer is the zodiac sign that was aware of the importance of self-care even before it became a trend. The Moon also instills in Cancer a need for a peaceful and stable home life. While the Cancer zodiac sign has an empathetic and caring nature, they should be mindful of becoming overly clingy or defensive towards others.

Leo Chart Ruler: The Sun

Leo- Element and Modality: Fire and Fixed

The Sun rules Leo, the second of the four fixed Fire signs, at the middle and peak of summer. Its influence on Leo manifests as confidence, courageousness, and a need for attention. This zodiac sign is impossible to miss, just like the Sun. Moreover, the Sun enhances Leo's strengths of leadership and self-promotion. Leos are dynamic, vibrant, and confident people who always leave an impression. However, they can easily fall into the traps of vanity and become too self-serving. As a Fixed sign, Leos are already stubborn and resistant to change, so they must learn to be more flexible and let others shine sometimes.

Scorpio Chart Ruler: Pluto and Mars

Scorpio- Element and Modality: Water and Fixed

The zodiac sign Scorpio is ruled by both Mars and Pluto in astrology, with Mars being the traditional ruler because it was discovered before Pluto. According to modern astrologers, Pluto's title of the God of the Underworld fits well with Scorpio's mysterious and transformative aspects.

While Mars makes Aries impulsive and rash, Scorpio takes on more secretive and covert tendencies under Mars. Scorpios tend to express their anger or personal drive in a cooler, more detached manner. On the other hand, Pluto contributes to the depth of Scorpio's intensity and emotions while also giving them an astonishing ability to transform themselves. Scorpios desire loyalty in their relationships, which sometimes leads to possessiveness or jealousy. To avoid falling into this trap, the Scorpio needs to learn to trust and be less suspicious of others.

Sagittarius Chart Ruler: Jupiter

Sagittarius – Element and Modality: Fire and Mutable

Jupiter represents the planet of luck and good fortune; it is also the planet of higher learning and exploration. Jupiter possesses a masculine energy and rules both Sagittarius and Pisces. In Sagittarius, Jupiter assists this sign in their quest for truth and meaning. This influence also adds to Sagittarius' deeply spiritual nature, making them open-minded and adventurous.

Additionally, Jupiter blesses Sagittarius with good luck in life. However, it is essential to keep in mind that these positive traits can turn into overconfidence and laziness if left unchecked. Sagittarius must remember that luck is not always constant and can change at any time.

Capricorn Chart Ruler: Saturn

Capricorn – Element and Modality: Earth and Cardinal

As the taskmaster of the zodiac, Saturn gets things accomplished. As the ruler of Capricorn, Saturn gives this sign its strong focus on work and career. Capricorn is an Earth sign, making them naturally practical and conservative. They love structure and thrive when following rules. Saturn's influence often leads Capricorns to succeed where others fail. However, they must be careful not to overwork themselves or believe that they are the only ones capable of doing things right. In their pursuit of success, they should not lose their empathy for others.

Aquarius Chart Ruler: Uranus and Saturn

Aquarius – Element and Modality: Air and Fixed

While traditionally, Saturn rules Aquarius, modern astrologers also assign Uranus to this sign. For Aquarius, Saturn makes this quirky sign less erratic and more predictable. This planet also gives Aquarius the dedication it needs to bring its innovative ideas to fruition and perhaps makes this social butterfly less flighty.

On the other hand, Uranus represents rebellion and freedom, two things that the Aquarian personality desires most. It also helps free up the Aquarian mind, enabling them to explore all possibilities and come up with innovative ideas. However, the combination of these two rulers may sometimes lead Aquarians to become rebels without a cause. Aquarians need to remember that cold logic may not always be the best approach and that considering other people's viewpoints could help them succeed in their grand plans.

Pisces Chart Ruler: Neptune and Jupiter

Pisces – Element and Modality: Water and Mutable

While Jupiter traditionally ruled Pisces, modern astrology assigns Neptune to this Water sign because it has a natural kinship with Pisces. Discovered in 1846, Neptune is a planet that is primarily fluid, reflecting its association with Poseidon, the God of the Sea. This association is why the trident glyph is Neptune's symbol. Neptune enhances the Pisces' inherent empathy and sensitivity to the world.

On the other hand, Jupiter bestows the Pisces with a love of beauty and a penchant for creative expression. Furthermore, Jupiter contributes some resilience and strength to a sign that can easily become overwhelmed by life. Finally, it provides them with the intuition that makes this sign not only compassionate but also so vulnerable. Those born under Pisces should be cautious of being taken advantage of due to their kind nature and protect themselves.

In Summary

Understanding astrology becomes easier when you learn about the planetary rulers, elements, and modalities assigned to each zodiac sign. It not only helps you understand your sign's unique personality and tendencies but also gives you a broader understanding of astrology, which relies on symbols, mythology, and science. You can refer to our free zodiac chart to recall each sign's planetary ruler and modality for future reference.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©E.Va/Shutterstock.com.

The post Use This Sign Chart to See Your Zodiac Sign’s Ruling Planet and Modality appeared first on Moms Who Think.

One of Taco Bell's most iconic menu items is Mexican Pizza. It consists of ground beef, refried beans, crispy tortillas, melted cheese, and tomatoes. Moreover, the Mexican Pizza's cult-like menu status is partly due to its easy customization. In fact, if you order a veggie Mexican pizza without the shredded cheese, it is a suitable vegan option.

If you recall the days when you could add green onions and black olives to your Mexican pizza, you will be pleased to learn that this copycat recipe allows you to do so once more. Similar to the original, this copycat recipe can be tailored to match your and your family's food preferences.

What is the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza?

The classic Taco Bell Mexican Pizza includes seasoned beef and refried beans layered between two fried flour tortillas. It is then topped with pizza sauce, a three-cheese blend, and fresh diced tomatoes. Additionally, there's a vegetarian version of the Mexican pizza, which, as previously mentioned, can be customized to suit your personal ingredient preferences.

This menu item was first introduced in 1985 as “Pizzazz Pizza” but was later renamed “Mexican Pizza” in 1988. The renaming may have been due to a 1985 lawsuit in which a local pizzeria sued Taco Bell's then-owner, PepsiCo, citing trademark infringement.

For years, Mexican pizza has been one of the most popular items on the menu at Taco Bell. It became especially popular among South Asian Americans because the beef could be substituted with beans, making it suitable for vegetarian diets.

Why Did Taco Bell Remove the Mexican Pizza from its Menu?

Taco Bell removed the Mexican Pizza from its menu in 2020 as the company began streamlining to “provide a more efficient restaurant experience.” The chain also cited environmental concerns about its paperboard packaging. In response, Krish Jagirdar, a vegetarian Indian American, started a Change.org petition for Taco Bell to reinstate it, which received over 170,000 signatures.

The Mexican Pizza made a comeback to the Taco Bell menu in 2022 and received an overwhelming response from customers. In fact, one customer even placed an order for 180 Mexican Pizzas at once. Now, Taco Bell says that the Mexican Pizza will be a permanent item on the menu.

What are the Ingredients in the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza?

To make your own Mexican Pizza at home, you will need the following ingredients.

• Small flour tortillas – You may want to use a non-stick skillet to keep the tortillas from sticking to the pan.
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
• 1 pound of ground beef – The great thing about making this copycat recipe at home is that you can use any type of ground meat. So, if you do not like ground beef, consider using ground turkey or even chicken. For vegetarians, use a meat substitute or the beans of your choice.
• 1 packet of taco seasoning – You can use any taco seasoning. You can even make your own. 
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Optional toppings – black olives, diced green onions, sour cream, salsa

With these basic ingredients, follow the recipe below to create your ideal copycat version of Taco Bell's Mexican Pizza.

What Can I Serve with Mexican Pizza?

Here are some side serving ideas for your next Mexican pizza dinner.

• Chips and Dip – We recommend this delicious Taco Dip recipe.
• Cocktails – You can enjoy a fruity cocktail with your copycat Mexican pizza, including fresh sangria or a Blue Lagoon. Of course, margaritas are perfectly fine, too.
• Guacamole – Guacamole made with fresh avocados is another great topping for your Mexican pizza.
• Salsa -Any salsa would pair nicely with your homemade Mexican Pizza, but we suggest trying it with a side of a fruit-based salsa, like a mango or peach salsa.

Final Thoughts

Since 1985, Taco Bell's Mexican Pizza has been a beloved menu choice among its customers. After disappearing for two years, the chain permanently brought Mexican Pizza back to its menu in 2022. During that time, many copycat recipes appeared online to comfort those who missed this iconic menu item.

Now, you can make your own Mexican Pizza at home and customize it with your favorite ingredients while saving money by not eating out. Complete your meal with our delicious sides and a cocktail, and you may not want to go back to Taco Bell for the original Mexican Pizza.

Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: 4

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Description

Our simple copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza recipe offers a quick and delicious alternative to the fast-food favorite. Furthermore, you can customize this recipe to suit your family's preferences.

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Ingredients

– 8 small flour tortillas
– 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Optional toppings: diced green onions, sour cream, salsa

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease and add the taco seasoning according to packet instructions. Set aside.
3. Heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl until warm.
4. In a separate skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
5. Fry each tortilla for about 1-2 minutes on each side until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
6. To assemble each Mexican pizza, spread a layer of refried beans on one tortilla, followed by a layer of seasoned ground beef.
7. Place another tortilla on top and spread a layer of diced tomatoes and sliced black olives (if using) over the beef.
8. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
9. Repeat to make another Mexican pizza.
10. Place assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve hot with optional toppings like diced green onions, sour cream, and salsa.

• Prep Time: 10-15 Minutes
• Cook Time: 5-7 Minutes in the oven

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Leigh Loftus/Shutterstock.com.

The post Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Hot Mustard sauce is one of the original sauce choices for Chicken McNuggets at McDonald's, However, this has been hard to find since 2015. If you have been searching for a copycat recipe, our version of McDonald's Hot Mustard sauce is exactly what you need.

Did McDonald's Discontinue Its Hot Mustard Sauce?

In 2015, McDonald's discontinued its Hot Mustard sauce nationally, but it is still available in certain markets. According to McDonald's, the decision to stock this sauce varies by region. It is reportedly still available in over 50 percent of the McDonald's in the United States. Also, McDonald's Hot Mustard sauce still appears on its online menu.

One blogger reported finding it at a McDonald's in Plymouth, Wisconsin and bought 30 small containers for five dollars. However, you do not have to drive around the country stockpiling tiny packages of this sauce. You also do not have to resort to searching on Amazon, where a seller once offered 12 packs of Hot Mustard sauce for $30. With our copycat recipe, you will be able to make as much Hot Mustard sauce as you like.

Which Ingredients Does McDonald's Hot Mustard Sauce Contain?

While the exact combination of ingredients in McDonald's Hot Mustard sauce is a mystery, according to the restaurant chain's website, it contains the following key elements.

• Prepared Mustard (Water, Vinegar, Mustard Seed, Salt, Turmeric, Paprika, and other Spices)
• Sugar
• Water
• Soybean Oil
• Canola Oil
• Vinegar
• Ground Mustard
• Modified Corn Starch
• Liquid Egg Yolk
• Salt
• Ground Red Pepper

Our copycat version includes many of the same ingredients.

How to Make Copycat Hot Mustard Sauce

Creating a copycat version of McDonald's signature Hot Mustard sauce is simple and requires only basic pantry ingredients. Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and white vinegar form the base, lending a balance of tanginess and sweetness. Infusing this mixture with garlic powder, turmeric, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper adds depth and a subtle heat reminiscent of the original dipping sauce.

To perfect the flavor, taste the mustard sauce and adjust the seasoning as desired. Then, transfer the Hot Mustard sauce to a serving dish or an airtight container. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend, and then serve.

What to Eat With Your Copycat McDonald's Hot Mustard Sauce

This versatile Hot Mustard sauce is a great addition to many dishes. It can be used as a dipping sauce for chicken wings or chicken wraps, and it is incredible on soft pretzels. If you like experimenting, you can thin the sauce with a little water and use it as a salad dressing. Additionally, consider adding it to ham and cheese sandwiches. Of course, you can always put it on hot dogs.

This sauce even complements grilled meats, serving as both a marinade and dipping sauce. For a healthier option, enjoy it with a vegetable platter featuring fresh carrots, celery, and bell peppers. For your next party or game day, add this Hot Mustard copycat sauce to a potato chip tray. There is no shortage of delicious combinations to consider with this easy-to-make sauce.

How to Store Your Copycat Hot Mustard Sauce

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this Copycat McDonald's Hot Mustard sauce can be kept for approximately two weeks. While it is technically possible to freeze this sauce, it is not recommended. The texture and flavor of the copycat sauce may change after being frozen and thawed. Additionally, the ingredients in the sauce may separate or become watery upon thawing, affecting its overall quality.

In Summary

Crafting a homemade version of McDonald's signature Hot Mustard sauce is remarkably easy. By combining simple ingredients like Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and spices, you can recreate the flavor of this iconic sauce in the comfort of your kitchen.

Whether you use your copycat sauce as a dip for chicken nuggets, fries, or veggies, this versatile sauce will become a family favorite. This homemade Hot Mustard sauce offers a delicious alternative to the sought-after McDonald's cult sauce, providing a taste of nostalgia with every bite.

McDonald's Hot Mustard Sauce: Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 4

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, mayonnaise, and white vinegar. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

2. Add the garlic powder, turmeric, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Stir until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.

3. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Add salt if desired.

4. Transfer the hot mustard sauce to a serving dish or an airtight container.

5. Cover the sauce and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

This recipe should yield approximately four servings, with each serving being around one ounce or two tablespoons of hot mustard sauce. Adjust the quantities according to your needs. 

• Prep Time: 5

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Nataly Studio/Shutterstock.com.

The post McDonald’s Hot Mustard Sauce: Copycat Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

On February 10th, 2024, the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival starts. This is celebrated by people in East and Southeast Asia, including China, Vietnam, and Korea. Many people in the United States also celebrate the Lunar New Year, commonly referring to it as the “Chinese New Year.”

The association of the Lunar New Year with the Chinese zodiac may explain this. The Chinese zodiac assigns an animal to symbolize each year, and the cycle of animals repeats every twelve years. Many people widely believe that the zodiac animal of one's birth year profoundly influences an individual's personality and prosperity in life.

Let us explore how people celebrate the Lunar New Year, its history, and the origins of the Chinese zodiac. Moreover, we will reveal the significance of the Year of the Dragon for people in 2024.

What is the Lunar New Year?

Almost a quarter of the world's population, nearly two billion people, celebrate the Lunar New Year, which is based on the cycles of the moon and dates back to the fourteenth century. The Chinese calendar follows a twelve-month cycle, like the Gregorian calendar. Each month starts with the new moon when the moon is completely dark. The start of the Lunar New Year varies every year because the lunar cycle shifts from month to month.

Since the 1990s, Chinese workers have enjoyed a week-long holiday for the new year. Nowadays, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce estimates that people spend approximately 820 billion yuan on shopping and dining during this celebration. Korea and Vietnam also recognize the Lunar New Year. In fact, each country has a different name for the Lunar New Year, such as Chūnjié (China/Mandarin), Seollal (Korea), and Tết (Vietnam).

During the traditionally week-long festival, people exchange gifts with their loved ones. Families decorate their homes with red ornaments and give each other money in red envelopes for good luck and prosperity. They also thoroughly clean their homes and wear new clothes to celebrate the occasion. Additionally, it is also a time for honoring ancestors and deities, with many families setting up altars and offering food, incense, and other offerings. Public celebrations include colorful parades, dragon and lion dances, and fireworks.

Celebrating the Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year festival has a rich history and cultural significance in many Asian countries. In Korea, this celebration, called Seollal, lasts for three days. Families honor their ancestors, visit relatives, and enjoy traditional foods like “tteokguk,” a rice cake soup. In Vietnam, the lunar festival lasts for seven days. During this time, families exchange gifts, decorate their homes with flowers, and enjoy traditional foods like “bánh chưng,” a sticky rice cake.

Apart from China, Korea, and Vietnam, other countries throughout Southeast Asia also celebrate the Lunar New Year. In Japan, families celebrate the festival called “Shogatsu” by cleaning their homes, decorating them with traditional ornaments like “kadomatsu,” and eating “osechi ryori,” a special New Year's feast. Meanwhile, in Malaysia, families celebrate the new year with dragon and lion dances, and fireworks. They also eat traditional foods like “yee sang,” a salad made with raw fish and vegetables. In Taiwan, people celebrate this holiday with the Spring Festival, which is similar to the celebrations in China. There families gather to share traditional foods and exchange red envelopes filled with money.

Elaborate Lunar New Year celebrations take place in major US cities, including San Francisco and New York City. In fact, the San Francisco Chinese New Year parade is the largest celebration outside of Asia. San Francisco began celebrating the Lunar New Year during the Gold Rush of the 1860s when many Chinese immigrants moved to California. Boston, boasting the third largest Chinatown in the country, also puts on a parade along with traditional dance performances. In Anaheim, California, Disneyland annually hosts splendid Chinese New Year festivities featuring parades and traditional cuisine.

History and Origins of the Lunar New Year

During the Han Dynasty, which lasted from 202 BC to 220 AD, China began celebrating the Lunar New Year. Traditionally, this celebration marked the end of winter and the beginning of warmer weather. Korea began celebrating the Lunar New Year in the seventh century. Furthermore, the Vietnamese have been celebrating Tết, as they call it, since the Lý Dynasty, between 1009 AD and 1226 AD.

Many legends and customs are associated with the festival, steeping the Lunar New Year in tradition and symbolism. One of the most popular legends is about Nian, a beast said to eat human flesh on New Year's Day. However, the color red, loud noises, and fire frightened Nian. People decorated their homes with red paper decorations and lit lanterns all night. Additionally, they set off firecrackers to keep the beast away. This legend is the origin of many of the Lunar New Year celebrations around the world.

Chinese Astrology Explained

People often compare the Chinese zodiac and Western astrology, but their similarity ends with the fact that both have twelve zodiac symbols. To understand the Chinese zodiac, one must grasp several key concepts, such as the characteristics associated with each animal-based zodiac sign, the meanings of the five elements, and the interactions between the animal signs and elements. The concept of Yin and Yang, which symbolizes balance and harmony in nature, also has a significant influence on the Chinese zodiac.

The Meaning of Yin and Yang

Chinese philosophy centers on the Yin/Yang principle. It divides a circle into a black teardrop and a white teardrop. Yin is black, symbolizing the shadow self, active force, and masculine nature. Yang is white, symbolizing the light side, passive force, and feminine nature. Chinese astrologers believe these forces are interdependent and intertwined in the universe. Furthermore, they believe that the Ying and Yang are always seeking to achieve balance.

The Five Elements in the Chinese Zodiac

The five elements of Chinese astrology are known as “Wu Xing.” This phrase roughly translates to “changing states of being.” In Chinese astrology, the five elements are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element is associated with specific characteristics, energies, and attributes. The Chinese zodiac assigns one of the five elements to each sign.

The behavior of each astrological sign is actively influenced by its corresponding element, which changes every year. For instance, 2023 was the Year of the Rabbit, which made it a Water Rabbit year. People born during the year of the Water Rabbit are generally very popular and show great consideration for others.

What the Five Elements Mean

Here is a list of what the five phases or elements in the Chinese zodiac symbolize.

• Wood (木 mù) – Wood symbolizes growth and change. This element also represents springtime, the liver in the body, the color green, and the direction east. Its related zodiac signs are the Tiger and Rabbit.
• Fire (火 huǒ) – The Fire element symbolizes energy, passion, and transformation. It represents summertime, the direction south, the color red, and the heart in the body. Fire's related zodiac signs are the Snake and the Horse.
• Earth (土 tǔ) – The element Earth symbolizes practicality, nurturing, and stability. It also signifies the transition between seasons, the central direction, the color yellow, and the spleen and stomach in the human body. Its related zodiac signs are the Ox, Dragon, Goat, and Dog.
• Metal (金 jīn) – Metal represents strength, structure, discipline, and precision. It is associated with autumn, the direction west, the color white, and the lungs in the body. The Monkey and the Rooster are the zodiac signs associated with metal.
• Water (水 shuǐ) – This element symbolizes adaptability, emotions, and intuition. Water represents the season of winter, the direction north, the colors black and blue, and the kidneys and bladder in the body. The Rat and the Pig are the zodiac signs linked to Water.

Understanding the five elements is not only important for Chinese astrology but also essential for understanding the concepts of traditional Chinese medicine and Feng Shui. In astrology, medicine, and Feng Shui, each element interacts with the others to create a system of relationships known as “The Five Element Cycle.”

The Chinese Zodiac

“Sheng Xiao” or “Shu Xiang,” the Chinese Zodiac, features twelve zodiac signs that follow each other in a specific order. Furthermore, the Chinese zodiac follows a twelve-year cycle, meaning that after every twelve years, the same sequence of animals is repeated. Moreover, the year of your birth determines your zodiac sign.

Here is the sequence of the Chinese zodiac with each animal's related personality traits.

• Rat – Adaptable, quick-witted, and timid.
• Ox – Calm, honest, and stubborn.
• Tiger – Confident, loyal, and short-tempered.
• Rabbit – Gentle, compassionate, and timid.
• Dragon – Ambitious, frank, and generous.
• Snake – Jealous, eloquent, and sly.
• Horse – Patient, steady, and opinionated.
• Sheep – Gentle, soft-hearted, and moody.
• Monkey – Self-assured, sociable, and impatient.
• Rooster – Confident, independent, and vain.
• Dog – Brave, loyal, and emotional.
• Pig – Sincere, warm-hearted, and jealous.

People often consult the Chinese zodiac for guidance on relationships, career choices, and other life predictions.

2024: The Year of the Dragon

As the fifth animal in the Chinese zodiac cycle, the dragon is a powerful sign, partly because it is the only sign in the Chinese zodiac represented by a mythical animal. People born in the Year of the Dragon inherit the Dragon's strong qualities, such as confidence, charm, ambition, passion, and love for adventure. Astrologers believe the Year of the Dragon brings significant changes, breakthroughs, and achievements, making it an excellent time for new beginnings, innovation, and bold action. If you are considering making a big change in your life, astrologers believe that the year of the dragon is a good time to do so.

Chinese astrology assigns each dragon year with one of the five Chinese elements. The Water Dragon marked the end of the previous dragon year in 2012. In 2024, the Wood Dragon will bring a reflective nature to the dragon. Astrologers believe that wood tempers the dragon and is aligned with its sense of duty and purpose. Ethics and morality are also associated with the wood element.

The Year of the Wood Dragon comes every sixty years. For instance, the last Wood Dragon year in 1964 brought significant changes to America. The Beatles arrived in the United States, changing the music landscape forever. President Johnson signed the Civil Rights Act, which made discrimination based on color, race, religion, and sexual orientation illegal. We will have to wait and see if 2024, the next Year of the Wood Dragon, will bring the same kinds of social changes.

In Summary

February 10th, the Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year, usher in the Year of the Dragon. The Dragon is the fifth sign of the Chinese zodiac and the only mythological animal. For this reason, the Dragon is considered one of the most auspicious and powerful signs in the Chinese zodiac.

Astrologers believe the year of the Dragon is the time to make major life changes and to take risks. Moreover, the element assigned to the 2024 Dragon Year is wood. Those born in the Wood Dragon year are courageous, but they also have a strong sense of duty and morals. Astrologers believe that 2024's Year of the Dragon may become another watershed year full of changes. Time will tell!

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock.com.

The post The Chinese Zodiac Explained: The Year of the Dragon 2024 appeared first on Moms Who Think.

One of the most popular items on the menu at Papa John's is the garlic dipping sauce. In fact, their dipping sauce might be our favorite thing about ordering Papa John's pizza. Unfortunately, there never seems to be enough of it, but if you learn to make your own copycat Papa John's garlic sauce, you will never run out again. This copycat sauce does not just taste great on pizza and breadsticks; it also tastes great on hamburgers and garlic bread. You can even make Shrimp Scampi with it.

What is Papa John's Garlic Dipping Sauce Made Of?

Papa John's iconic dipping sauce contains salt, spices, garlic, wheat starch, dried onion, soybean oil, and paprika extract. Surprisingly, Papa John's garlic sauce does not contain actual butter. While some copycat recipes use butter, for a more authentic copycat sauce, it should be made with margarine. The Papa John's website also clarifies that the garlic in the ingredients list is dehydrated, so this famous dipping sauce is made of garlic powder and margarine.

How Popular is Papa John's Garlic Sauce?

In the late 1980s, Papa John's introduced their signature garlic sauce, which has since become one of the brand's most popular accompaniments to their pizzas and other menu items. Even those who are not big fans of Papa John's pizzas admit their garlic dipping sauce tastes amazing.

Recognizing people's love for their dipping sauce, in 2019, Papa John's turned the garlic flavor into a crust option by baking its Garlic Sauce and Parmesan cheese into the crust. This new specialty pizza also became very popular. Unlike its competitors, Papa John's had not previously offered any flavored crusts.

In 2017, the company played a prank on garlic sauce enthusiasts by announcing on Twitter that it would sell gallon jugs of the sauce for 10 dollars. This idea was met with such enthusiasm that Papa John's actually started offering gallon jugs the following year, although they raised the price to 20 dollars. One TikToker celebrated by making a garlic sauce dipping fountain. However, you do not have to spend that much money. Our copycat recipe rivals the original at a fraction of the cost.

What are the Ingredients in Papa John's Garlic Sauce?

This iconic dipping sauce is made with simple ingredients.

• Margarine — As mentioned earlier, Papa John's garlic sauce is actually made with margarine, not butter. However, do not panic. You can use butter if you prefer. If you do use butter, use unsalted butter because it will melt wonderfully and add more flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic Powder — If you use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic, use it sparingly because it is strong stuff. You can also use roasted garlic, which has a slightly less intense flavor and makes a creamier sauce.
• Salt — Sea salt is a good option for this recipe.
• Spices — Oregano and basil appear in this recipe. For more authenticity, you can also add paprika.

You may also customize this recipe by adding chili flakes for a bit of spiciness or any other spice you enjoy.

How Do I Store the Leftovers?

To store your leftover Copycat Papa John's Garlic Sauce, follow these steps.

• Allow the garlic sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or jar.
• This copycat sauce will last in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• Additionally, this sauce will last in the freezer for up to three months.
• Before serving, stir the sauce thoroughly because the ingredients may have settled.

Pro-tip: If you make a big batch and decide to freeze the extra sauce, you can pour the garlic sauce into ice trays to freeze, which will give you the perfect portions for thawing.

In Summary

Our copycat recipe for Papa John's delicious garlic dipping sauce is much cheaper and takes approximately five minutes to prepare. Once you make this copycat sauce, you will want to use it on everything from garlic bread to shrimp to hamburgers. More importantly, you no longer have to worry about sharing or running out of this iconic pizza dipping sauce. You can make enough for everyone.

Copycat Papa John's Garlic Sauce Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

This simple recipe produces a delicious homemade version of Papa John's famous garlic dipping sauce, which is far more affordable than purchasing it directly from the pizza chain.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (preferably sea salt)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

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Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, remove the saucepan from the heat.
3. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
4. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving.
6. Serve the garlic dipping sauce alongside your favorite pizza, breadsticks, or other snacks.

Notes

Carefully taste and adjust this recipe to your personal preferences. Some may prefer more garlic or salt in their copycat sauce. However, if you add too much of either, add extra margarine to balance out the sauce.

• Cook Time: 5

The image featured at the top of this post is ©By theimpulsivebuy - Papa John's Pan Pizza 2, CC BY-SA 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=85215273.

The post Copycat Papa John’s Garlic Sauce Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Chick-fil-A's signature sauce is known for its sweet, spicy, and slightly smoky flavor. The sauce is a combination of honey mustard and barbecue sauce, creating a tangy yet smoky dip. Furthermore, it has a creamy and smooth texture, making it perfect for dipping chicken nuggets and the chain's signature waffle fries. While the exact recipe for Chick-fil-A sauce is unknown, our copycat version will satisfy any cravings. Of course, the best part is that you can make as much as you want and never run out.

What Does Chick-fil-A Sauce Taste Like?

Chick-fil-A sauce has a rich, smoky, and tangy taste because it is a mixture of barbecue sauce and honey mustard. In the early 1980s, a Chick-fil-A franchise operator in Fredericksburg, Virginia, began making honey mustard to serve alongside their chicken nuggets because Chick-fil-A did not have any sauces at the time. One day, one of his employees accidentally mixed barbecue sauce into the homemade honey mustard. Suddenly, the Chick-fil-A signature sauce was born. In 2008, after the employee retired and gave the chain the exact recipe, Chik-fil-A started serving this sauce in all of its restaurants. It is now their most popular sauce.

What Are the Ingredients in Chick-fil-A Sauce?

Chick-fil-A's signature sauce is reportedly a combination of soybean oil, sugar, barbecue sauce, water, mustard, distilled vinegar, egg yolk, salt, and cider vinegar. However, the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, as the formula has never been made public. However, it is possible to make a Chick-fil-A signature sauce at home that is very close to the sauce sold in restaurants and supermarkets.

How to Make Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce

You can create a homemade copycat Chick-fil-A sauce using a few essential ingredients, but getting an authentic flavor requires selecting the right option for each ingredient. Some people use store-bought honey mustard to make the sauce, but it often contains extra sweeteners. Instead, buying both mustard and honey is the better choice. Using a good brand of honey will naturally sweeten the finished sauce and enhance its overall flavor.

Key Ingredients

• Mustard – It is best to use a quality Dijon Mustard for your copycat sauce. 
• Barbecue Sauce – Choose a sweet sauce, such as a Memphis-style sauce.
• Honey – Depending on which barbecue sauce you choose, you may have to increase or decrease the amount of honey in the recipe. 

What to Serve with Your Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce

In addition to chicken, you can enjoy your copycat Chick-fil-A sauce in a number of ways. You can even make a Chick-fil-A Sauce Chicken Casserole. Here are some other ideas to consider.

• Eggs – You can add this sauce to your scrambled eggs and breakfast burritos.
• Fish – This sauce is excellent as a dipping sauce for fish sticks or as a condiment for fish tacos.
• Fries – Fries, such as waffles and Cajun, pair well with this dipping sauce.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – It might sound unusual, but many people insist this sauce is great on grilled cheese sandwiches.
• Hot Dogs – Instead of plain old mustard, add this sauce to your hot dogs.
• Quesadillas – This sauce is especially good as a dipping sauce for quesadillas.
• Sandwiches and Wraps – You can enhance the flavor of turkey and ham sandwiches and wraps by adding this sauce.

How to Store Your Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce

Place any leftovers in an airtight container or jar. Your leftover sauce should be kept for approximately one week. We do not recommend freezing your copycat sauce. When frozen, the mayonnaise in the sauce may separate and become watery, affecting its consistency. Additionally, freezing can cause the flavors to change.

In Summary

To recreate Chick-fil-A's signature sauce, you need a few simple ingredients. However, it is important to choose good quality ingredients to make the best copycat sauce. Once you perfect your copycat recipe, you will want to use this sauce on everything. In addition to a variety of chicken dishes, you can use this as a dipping sauce for fish and French fries. It can also be put on hot dogs and sandwiches. You can even make a Chick-fil-A Sauce Chicken Casserole! The best part is that you do not have to make a trip to Chick-fil-A or stress about running out of their signature sauce ever again.

Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cup of sauce

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Description

This recipe makes one cup of Chick-fil-A's signature sauce. 

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, yellow mustard, barbecue sauce, lemon juice, and mayonnaise.

2. Whisk all the ingredients together until well combined and smooth.

3. Taste the sauce and adjust any ingredients to your preference. You can add more honey for sweetness, more mustard for tanginess, or more barbecue sauce for depth of flavor.

4. Once you're satisfied with the taste, transfer the sauce to a sealed container.

5. Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Johny Keny/Shutterstock.com.

The post Copycat Chick-fil-A Sauce Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Crumbl Cookie is one of today's most popular bakery chains, but did you know that it started as a small bakery shop in Logan, Utah? It first gained popularity on social media. Today Crumbl has approximately 992 locations. They have expanded their menu and now serve a rotating selection of about 250 cookie flavors.

Crumbl offers classics like Milk Chocolate Chip, their original cookie, and Snickerdoodle cookies. However, Crumbl is more famous nowadays for its signature cookie creations. Some of their most popular specialty cookies include Cotton Candy, Fried Ice Cream, Raspberry Lemonade, and Strawberry Pretzel Pie. They also serve a Carrot Cake cookie that, at two tiers, is more like a cake than a cookie. However, for many customers, the Milk Chocolate Chip cookie is still the best.

Did we mention that their cookies are gigantic? Each Crumbl cookie averages 5.5 ounces per cookie. So, even though they are an indulgence, they can rarely be eaten in one sitting. However, it can get pricey to take the whole family there. If you love Crumbl's Milk Chocolate Chip cookies as much as we do, our copycat recipe will allow you to recreate this masterpiece at home. This copycat recipe will save you a lot of money in the long run.

What Makes Crumbl Cookies Special?

Sawyer Hemsley, the founder of Crumbl Cookies, wanted to make the best chocolate chip cookie in the world. To aid in this endeavor, he enlisted his cousin Jason McGowan to help him perfect the classic cookie. The two baked multiple batches of Chocolate Chip cookies, changing one or two ingredients each time. Then, they would poll random strangers at gas stations and grocery stores, asking, “Which cookie do you prefer?” Using this grassroots strategy, they have, by all accounts, created a perfect Milk Chocolate Chip cookie.

Crumbl's signature cookie is dense and soft yet ultra crumbly and crunchy. Additionally, Crumbl's Milk Chocolate Chip cookie has a hint of toffee, which enhances the overall flavor of the cookie. Like all of Crumbl's cookies, their Milk Chocolate Chip cookies are rich and exceptionally large, making them a great value for the price. However, you can make a copycat version of this popular cookie for a fraction of the cost.

Crumbl Cookie Flavors

Whether you're heading to your nearby Crumbl Cookie location or you're attempting to make your own copycat recipe at home, take a look at the many flavors in the Crumbl Cookie portfolio. Note that the flavors change each week, but this list provides an idea of the tasty options you can play with:

• Blueberry Muffin
• Triple Chocolate Chip
• Churro
• Peanut Butter Munch
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chunk
• Classic Pink Sugar

What Is Crumbl's Secret Recipe?

Crumbl has invested a significant amount of time and effort in perfecting its recipes. As a result, it is no surprise that the company closely guards its cookie secrets. According to a manager who posted on Reddit, employees make freshly baked cookies every day with a certain amount of ingredients. However, the final ingredients for each cookie come in packets that conceal the full recipe. It is rumored that employees at Crumbl have to sign non-disclosure agreements just to work there. However, this has not stopped people from trying to perfect a copycat version of Crumbl's Milk Chocolate Chip cookie at home.

Tips for Making Your Copycat Crumbl Milk Chocolate Chip Cookie

Even though their exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, some internet sleuths have uncovered some important details about Crumbl's Milk Chocolate Chip cookie. Here are a few tips to help you make the best copycat version ever.

• Use High-Quality Brands – Crumbl Bakery makes its cookies with Darigold and Wholesome Farms salted butter. Moreover, it uses Guittard for its chocolate chips. Using these brands or similar brands will make your cookies more like Crumbl cookies.
• Measure the Dough – The dough for the Milk Chocolate Chip cookies weighs 5.5 ounces. To recreate Crumbl's cookie, make sure you weigh your cookie dough precisely. You can use a food scale or a measuring cup.
• Add Cornstarch – Crumble cookies have a distinct texture. Adding cornstarch creates a thick, melty consistency, making your copycat cookies turn out more like Crumbl's cookies.
• Check the Oven Temperature – It is rumored that all of their cookies are baked at 290°F in a convection oven. When baking at home, make sure to use the convection or fan-assisted setting. However, if your oven does not have a fan setting, try baking the cookies at 350°F. This temperature will ensure that you achieve the desired texture and spread of your copycat Crumbl cookies.
• Cool the Cookies on the Pan – These cookies are heavy, so moving them to the cooling rack may cause the centers to fall through the rack.

Variation Ideas for Your Copycat Crumbl Milk Chocolate Chip Cookie

Once you have perfected your copycat cookie, you might want to experiment with creating your delicious version of this cookie. Here are some suggestions to help you get started.

• Add Expresso Powder – Mix a small amount of espresso powder into the dough. Adding expresso powder will enhance the chocolate flavor and add a subtle hint of coffee.
• Add Some Heat – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough. Your cookies will have a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the chocolate chips.
• Use Almond Extract – Try adding almond extract with some chopped nuts and toffee bits.
• Chop Up Candy Bars and Add the Bits. – Since this cookie dough is thick and sturdy, you can add a chopped-up candy bar of your choice to the mix.
• Add a Citrus Flavor – Consider adding orange zest to this cookie dough for a rich, citrusy flavor that complements the chocolate chips.
• Use Dark Chocolate – If you prefer darker chocolate with less sweetness, use semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chunks) instead of milk chocolate chips.
• Try Peanut Butter Chips – Add in peanut butter chips or Reese's pieces.
• Use Rolled Oats for Texture – Add rolled oats to the dough for a chewier texture and heartier flavor.

Once you perfect this imitation recipe, you can create a wide range of variations for your family's miniature bakery shop.

How Long Will My Crumbl Copycat Cookies Stay Fresh?

Wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in a single layer in an airtight container. They will remain good for two days at room temperature and a week in the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to six months. Freezing is a great option if you make a large batch.

In Summary

Although Crumbl's Milk Chocolate Chip cookie recipe is a closely guarded secret, you can make a copycat version at home that will rival its deliciousness. To create the best copycat cookie, select brands of ingredients that are comparable to those used in Crumbl cookies. After making your copycat Milk Chocolate Chip cookies, you can freeze them for up to six months. By making your Crumbl cookies at home, you and your family can enjoy these indulgent cookies at any time, at a fraction of the cost.

Crumbl Cookie Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: 24-36 cookies

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This recipe yields deliciously soft cookies reminiscent of Crumbl's signature flavor. Adjustments can be made according to personal preferences, such as adding more chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey experience. 

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened salted butter, packed light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, kosher salt, cornstarch, and all-purpose flour.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Gently fold in the milk chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie for spreading.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Enjoy your homemade Crumbl-inspired milk chocolate chip cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Marie C Fields/Shutterstock.com.

The post Crumbl Cookie Copycat Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

We seldom wonder about the significance of numbers, which are very much a part of our daily lives. Numerology is a belief system that suggests the numbers in our lives may hold clues about our personalities and futures. In numerology, every number has its numerical value as well as a spiritual or mystical significance. In addition, numerology also explores the numerical value of the letters of the alphabet. We will explore numerology basics and specifically delve into the meaning of Life Path numbers. Additionally, we will provide an easy-to-use chart to help you understand your personal life path number.

Numerology 101: The Basics

Numerology dates back to ancient Greece, although the term itself was coined only in 1907. It was devised by Pythagoras, a renowned Greek philosopher and mathematician. As a result, he is regarded as the father of this field. Pythagoras was fascinated by numbers and studied Chaldean numerology in ancient Egypt for over two decades. He believed that numbers hold the key to understanding the world and that everything could be translated into numerical values, even letters. As a tribute to Pythagoras, the modern practice of numerology is based on the Pythagorean Number System.

Numerology is a practice that helps you understand your personality, including its strengths and weaknesses. While astrologists use your natal chart, numerologists use your numerology portrait, which consists of only six numbers. These six numbers come from three numbers taken from your birth date and three numbers taken from the letters of your name. Numerologists use these numbers in your numerology portrait to provide insights into your personality. These six numbers connect to each of the following aspects of your life.

Six Important Types of Numerology Numbers

• Soul's Urge: Numerology experts calculate the Soul Urge Number by analyzing the vowels in one's full birth name, which reveals your innermost desires, motivations, and emotional needs.
• Personality Number: Sometimes called the Outer Personality Number, this reflects the way others perceive you. It is determined from the numerical value of the consonants in your full birth name.
• Power Number: This number reveals your strengths and what your character is like. 
• Birthday Number: The day of your birth determines this number, which represents your personality traits and tendencies.
• Life Path Number: Numerology experts use your date of birth to calculate the Life Path Number, which represents the path that you should follow throughout your life. To arrive at this number, they add up the digits in the birthdate until they obtain either a single-digit number or master number (11, 22, or 33). Many consider this the most important number in numerology.
• Attitude Number: Sometimes called the “Sun Number,” this number represents your attitude towards life and how you act around others. 

Numerology experts recognize single-digit Life Path Numbers ranging from 1 to 9, along with three master numbers – 11, 22, and 33. These “Master” numbers hold higher spiritual insight and power, requiring a greater level of responsibility. Unlike other numbers, master numbers are not reduced to a single digit. We will examine all nine single-digit Life Path numbers. Additionally, we will consider the traits and life paths of the three Master numbers.

Numerology: The Life Path Number

If you are new to numerology, the best place to begin is with your Life Path Number. This number is not only the most revealing but also has a profound influence on your life. Each Life Path Number has strengths and weaknesses like astrological signs. It's up to you to decide whether to embrace the best or worst aspects of your number.

So, how do you calculate your Life Path Number? Your birth date comprises three parts — the month, day, and year. To get your Life Path number, you need to add up these numbers. Life Path Numbers are almost always single digits. However, you may end up with a “Master Number,” which could be either 11, 22, or 33. If you end up with a double-digit number other than these three Master Numbers, you have added incorrectly. This can be a bit complicated to explain, but this numerology website has an excellent breakdown with an example. Additionally, there are many online Life Path Number generators to help you determine your personal number. Our simple chart can help you understand the meaning of your life path number. We will also provide a detailed breakdown of each number.

Free Numerology Life Path Number Chart

Life Path Number 1 – The Individual

• Element – Fire
• Planetary Influence – The Sun, Mercury
• Color – Orange

Individuals with this Life Path number are highly self-motivated and independent. They tend to excel in leadership roles and entrepreneurship. Their strong work ethic helps them accomplish whatever they set their minds to, and they can usually overcome any obstacles in their way. As a result, they are often pioneers and innovators in their chosen fields.

However, they tend to be stubborn and overly independent, and they may refuse to listen to the input of others. Furthermore, they can come across as tactless when dealing with people, and they may also be prone to selfishness. If those born under this number can learn to temper these negative traits, they will likely enjoy a path of independence and success.

Life Path Number 2 – The Peacemaker

• Element – Water
• Planetary Influence – The Moon
• Color – Green

Life Path number Two is commonly known as the peacemaker and mediator. Individuals born under this number are highly empathetic and care deeply about the feelings of others, striving to create a peaceful and cooperative environment wherever they go. They often excel in professions that allow them to help others, such as counseling or mediation. They may also find success in government or diplomatic roles.

However, their aversion to conflict can sometimes lead them to be taken advantage of by others. They are also prone to being overwhelmed by their emotions due to their sensitivity. Additionally, they can be quite shy. If those born under this number can learn to handle conflict and not take things personally, they can use their abilities to help others and make the world a better place.

Life Path Number 3 – The Creative

• Element – Fire
• Planetary Influence – Mars, Jupiter, or Mercury
• Color – Red

Life Path number three is the path of creatives. They are typically extroverts who excel at meeting and connecting with other people. Moreover, they excel in the entertainment world, politics, and sales. They have a great eye for detail, which means they make excellent artist, photographers, and fashion designers. Additionally, they excel at music and dance. They are confident and tend to be the life of the party, making them popular and easy to get along with.

Unfortunately, if this creative energy is not channeled correctly, they may become self-destructive. Their need for attention means they sometimes lack consideration for others. If those born under this sign can temper their vanity and learn to accept help from others, they will succeed in their chosen life path.

Life Path Number 4 – The Manager

• Element – Earth
• Planetary Influence – Mercury, Uranus
• Color – Blue

Individuals born under the Life Path number four possess strong organizational skills and are diligent workers. They prefer a stable and secure lifestyle over an adventurous one. Unlike those born under Life Path number three, they find it challenging to come up with creative ideas but excel at logical and practical thinking. Science and data-driven careers are a perfect fit for them due to their exceptional skills in these areas. Additionally, they require routine and stability in their lives. They are highly loyal in their relationships and exhibit immense patience towards their loved ones.

However, their lack of creativity and need for routine make them struggle with change, even the most minor changes. They may become stubborn in their resistance to change, making it difficult for them to adapt. They may also display possessive and jealous behavior at times. If individuals born under Life Path number four can overcome these negative traits, they will find happiness and fulfillment in life.

Life Path Number 5 – The Adventurer

• Element – Air
• Planetary Influence – Jupiter, Mercury
• Color – Purple

Life Path number five individuals are energetic and have an adventurous nature. They are always seeking change and dislike being tied down to one place or person. Moreover, these individuals are resilient and thrive in the midst of chaos. They are naturally drawn to innovative and unconventional things and excel in careers where they can express themselves freely.

However, if they are not careful, their desire for freedom can lead to job-hopping and a lack of professional and personal boundaries. They also tend to be prone to jealousy, especially if they feel others have more than they do. To excel in life, these individuals should learn to balance their need for adventure with healthy boundaries and channel their open-mindedness toward positive ideas.

Life Path Number 6 – The Nurturer

• Element – Earth
• Planetary Influence – Venus
• Color – Yellow

Individuals born under Life Path number six enjoy taking care of others and excel in domestic tasks. They possess a deep sense of compassion and gravitate towards careers that involve caregiving and counseling, as they find great satisfaction in helping others. Additionally, they have a strong sense of justice. Those born under this number always uphold what they perceive as right and wrong.

However, in their pursuit of maintaining a beautiful home and being an ideal partner, they may become nagging and selfish towards their loved ones who do not fit into their vision of a perfect household. If their efforts go unrecognized, they may fall into the trap of portraying themselves as a victim. By overcoming these aspects of their personality, individuals born under this number can lead a fulfilling life.

Life Path Number 7 – The Seeker

• Element – Water
• Planetary Influence – Saturn, Neptune
• Color – Gray

People born under this number possess philosophical and inquisitive natures. They tend to spend much time lost in thought and require plenty of time alone to contemplate the big ideas of life. Naturally curious, they excel at careers where they can bring their curiosity and investigative skills. Furthermore, they are hard workers and love to explore ideas they find interesting.

However, they may neglect their loved ones due to their intense work ethic and need for solitude. This behavior can cause them to come off as moody. Moreover, they tend to be sarcastic or make cutting remarks. If they can control these negative tendencies and channel their philosophical approach to life in a positive manner, they will find happiness and success in work and home life.

Life Path Number 8 – The Powerhouse

• Element – Earth
• Planetary Influence – Uranus, Saturn
• Color – Azure

Ambitious, financially successful, and powerful, Life Path number eight individuals are courageous and will go after anything they want in life. They thrive in positions of authority and power. Success in whatever they do is their primary focus. No matter how many times they fail, those born under this number will keep trying until they succeed. As a result, they typically maintain positions of authority and often achieve great wealth.

However, their power-hungry nature can also be a downside. Their energy can lead to aggressiveness, restlessness, insomnia, and workaholism. They may prioritize power and wealth over their loved ones. To lead a happy and successful life, those born under this number need to balance their authoritative nature with downtime and consideration for others.

Life Path Number 9 – The Humanitarian

• Element – Fire
• Planetary Influence – Neptune, Mars
• Color – Lavender

Since nine is the last single digit Life Path number, it is a number that represents enlightenment and fulfillment. People born under this number are dedicated to seeking higher truths and the higher self. Community-minded, those born under this number excel at humanitarian work and are often leaders in the community. They are incredibly selfless and dedicated to helping others, often giving whatever they can to aid the less fortunate.

However, those born under this number tend to neglect themselves due to their selfless nature. They often overextend themselves and strive to maintain a positive image. To avoid these pitfalls, they need to prioritize taking time for themselves. Doing so will also help them avoid the self-pity trap they are prone to fall into. Setting healthy boundaries and realizing it is okay to take time for themselves will lead to happier lives.

Life Path Number 11 – The Healer

• Element – Air
• Planetary Influence – Neptune
• Color – Light Blue, Purple

People born under Life Path eleven, a master number, tend to possess highly developed intuitive skills and have a deep spiritual connection. They explore spiritual pursuits and are drawn to the mysteries of life, finding inspiration in its mystical aspects. They often feel that they are a part of something greater than themselves.

However, their deep sensitivity can cause emotional mood swings, and they are susceptible to the moods of others. Therefore, they may require assistance in navigating everyday life. If they can balance their spiritual nature with practicality and learn to control their emotions, they will find a fulfilling life path.

Life Path Number 22 – The Master Teacher

• Element – Earth
• Planetary Influence – Jupiter
• Color – Gold, White

Individuals with a Life Path number of twenty-two are often referred to as “Master Builders.” They possess powerful manifestation abilities and can transform their big dreams into a tangible reality. Moreover, they are practical, hardworking people who believe they are part of a bigger plan. As a result, they thrive in environments where they can use their skills to help others on a grand scale. Furthermore, they are deeply spiritual, so everything they do must align with their beliefs.

However, to achieve their big plans and dreams, they must engage in practical planning. This lack of planning means they tend to overwork themselves and neglect their loved ones in pursuit of their goals. If they can learn to balance their spiritual beliefs with the more practical sides of life, they can spend more time taking care of themselves and those they love. Finding balance is essential for those born under this number.

Life Path Number 33 – The Illuminated Guide

• Element – Fire
• Planetary Influence – Jupiter
• Color – Turquoise

As the final double-digit Life Path number, those born under this path live in the service of their fellow man. They always strive to be a loving and compassionate friend, spouse, or family member. Additionally, they are also creative individuals who express themselves well. Finally, they have a deep connection to the divine and possess a profound spiritual awareness that informs everything they do.

Although this Life Path number is the most complete and fulfilling, it comes with its own set of challenges. The pressure to live up to their grand humanitarian and spiritual goals can take a toll on these individuals. As a result, to find true happiness, they must consciously balance their personal needs with their desire to serve others. If they can achieve this balance, they will lead a successful and fulfilled life.

In Summary

Numerology is the belief that numbers have both a numerical and mystical value, based on the ideas of the Greek philosopher and mathematician Pythagoras. Numerologists think that specific numbers, including our Life Path Number, can reveal aspects of our lives and personalities, similar to how astrologers believe that our zodiac signs can provide important information about ourselves.

Your Life Path Number is calculated by adding up the digits of your birth date. There are nine single-digit life path numbers and three double-digit numbers. Each number indicates your dominant strengths and weaknesses and may also highlight the most suitable career path for you. By understanding your life path number, you can gain greater insights into yourself and how you interact with the world. Our free numerology Life Path chart is designed to give you a quick understanding of your personal life path number.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Luxcor/ via Getty Images.

The post Use This Numerology Chart to See Your Life Path Number and Understand What It Means appeared first on Moms Who Think.

The Outback Steakhouse's website tells us that one out of every four appetizers ordered is a Bloomin' Onion. They sell eight million Bloomin' Onions each year. Outback Steakhouse founder Tim Gannon created the restaurant chain's iconic appetizer, the Bloomin' Onion, in 1988. Drawing inspiration from a traditional Australian food called the “Blossoming Onion,” Gannon accidentally created a quintessentially American food — a colossal, deep-fried onion with petals resembling a blooming flower. 

Gannon introduced a spicy, mayonnaise-based dipping sauce that adds a zesty kick to this fried onion dish, completing this perfect appetizer. If you have tried it, you know this dipping sauce flawlessly balances the richness of the Bloomin' Onion. If you love the Bloomin' Onion dipping sauce, you can now make a copycat recipe at home to enjoy on your homemade onion rings, not to mention many other foods.

What Ingredients Are In the Bloomin' Onion Dipping Sauce?

The Bloomin' Onion dipping sauce is a combination of several ingredients. This dipping sauce has a creamy base of mayonnaise, which is complemented by the sweetness and tanginess of ketchup. To add a spicy kick and depth of flavor, cream-style horseradish sauce is added.

While some people choose to omit the horseradish, our recipe includes it as we think it is an essential ingredient for this dipping sauce. However, be cautious with the horseradish. It is strong. Add it gradually to this recipe and taste as you go to avoid ending up with a sauce that is too intense for your liking.

Paprika adds a hint of smokiness and color to the sauce. Salt enhances the overall flavor while balancing out the sweetness and acidity. Additionally, dried oregano contributes a hint of herbal flavor, while ground black pepper adds a touch of heat. However, cayenne pepper can be added for those who prefer a spicier sauce.

Worcestershire sauce also enhances the flavor of the Bloomin' Onion's dipping sauce. Garlic powder provides a rich garlic flavor without the texture of minced garlic, while onion powder intensifies the onion flavor of this dipping sauce. However, you can adjust these ingredients as needed, such as leaving out the horseradish or using cayenne instead of black pepper.

Can You Buy the Bloomin' Onion Dipping Sauce?

Outback Steakhouse restaurants only serve the Bloomin' Onion dipping sauce at the restaurant. Sadly, it is not sold in stores. Many people have tried to recreate the sauce at home, coming up with their own recipes as a result.

How to Use Your Copycat Bloomin' Onion Sauce

This versatile copycat dipping sauce complements a variety of foods. It does not just pair well with onion rings, but it also enhances the flavor of French fries, including sweet potato fries and tater tots. Additionally, you can use this sauce as a salad dressing or add it to a baked potato. It is also perfect for wraps and will elevate the taste of your sandwiches. Kids particularly love this sauce on their chicken tenders and mozzarella sticks. Of course, you can always make yourself a homemade Bloomin Onion.

Storing Your Copycat Bloomin' Onion Sauce

If you have any leftovers, you can store your copycat sauce in the refrigerator for up to five days. Additionally, you can prepare this sauce in advance as the flavors actually improve when given time to set. We recommend refrigerating your copycat sauce for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

However, we do not recommend freezing the copycat Bloomin' Onion dipping sauce or any mayonnaise-based sauces, really. When a sauce containing mayonnaise is frozen, the mayonnaise may undergo changes in texture and separate, consequently affecting the overall consistency of the sauce. Since it is easy to make, it is better to prepare a fresh batch when needed.

In Summary

If you love the dipping sauce that comes with the Bloomin' Onion appetizer at the Outback Steakhouse, you can make your own copycat dipping sauce for a fraction of the cost. Our recipe replicates this iconic dipping sauce, allowing you to enjoy it with more than just a Bloomin' Onion. While it is great with homemade onion rings, we also recommend trying it on salads and baked potatoes. Once you have perfected your copycat Bloomin' Onion dipping sauce, you will want to try it on everything.

Outback Steakhouse Bloomin' Onion Dipping Sauce: Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 6

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Here is a simple recipe for the dipping sauce typically served with the Outback Steakhouse's Bloomin' Onion appetizer.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons cream-style horseradish sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 pinch ground black pepper
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients: mayonnaise, ketchup, cream-style horseradish sauce, paprika, salt, dried oregano, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.

2. Mix everything together until well combined.

3. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning according to your preference. You can add more horseradish for extra kick, or more ketchup for sweetness.

4. Once satisfied with the flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the sauce to a jar with a tight-fitting lid.

5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

The prep time for making this Bloomin' Onion dipping sauce is quick: about 10 minutes. However, to enhance the flavors, it is best to refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving. This recipe yields approximately six servings of dipping sauce, with each serving being around two tablespoons.

• Prep Time: 10

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.com.

The post Outback Steakhouse Bloomin’ Onion Dipping Sauce: Copycat Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Burger King is the world's fifth-largest fast-food chain. It serves over 11 million guests globally every day. One of Burger King's most popular sauces is the Zesty Sauce, known for its combination of sweet, creamy, tart, and savory flavors that enhance the taste of their onion rings.

However, it is not just for onion rings. Many fans enjoy using this sauce on various other menu items. Despite the popularity of Zesty Sauce, you typically have to ask for it when ordering at the restaurant. Burger King has also experienced shortages of its famous sauce, leading to social media outcry.

The high demand for Zesty Sauce may have made it more appealing, but it also led some people to feel desperate enough to try and make their own Zesty Sauce at home. If you are one of these people, our Zesty Sauce copycat recipe will allow you to enjoy this delicious sauce whenever and however you want.

What Is Burger King's Zesty Sauce Made Of?

Burger King's Zesty sauce combines mayo, yellow mustard, ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, sugar, cayenne pepper, and soy sauce. Fans of this sauce particularly enjoy using it as a dip for onion rings, as it adds a pleasant kick of heat and acidity to the flavor.

Burger King's Zesty sauce resembles the dipping sauce served with Outback Restaurant's Bloomin' Onion. Both sauces include horseradish and cayenne pepper, giving them a unique flavor.

Can You Buy Burger King's Zesty Sauce?

Burger King introduced its Zesty Sauce in 2001 as a dipping sauce for their improved onion rings. However, it is not always available on Burger King's menu. When it is offered, you typically have to request it. Despite its popularity, Burger King does not sell this sauce by the jar.

Did Burger King Discontinue Their Zesty Sauce?

In 2019, Burger King ran out of Zesty Sauce due to a global horseradish shortage. There were speculations online that the popular sauce was being discontinued, which prompted an outcry from Zesty Sauce lovers on social media. Some Zesty Sauce fans even swore they would never eat at Burger King again if the sauce did not make a comeback.

Burger King released a statement explaining why some of its restaurants would be out of their Zesty Sauce for five months or longer. As a result, those craving Zesty Sauce started sharing their copycat recipes online to help fans get through the shortage.

What to Serve with Copycat Burger King Zesty Sauce?

Once you perfect making this delicious sauce, you will find that it complements a wide variety of dishes. The rich and savory flavors of the sauce enhance the tastes of different foods, including many meats and vegetables. Consider using this copycat sauce on the following foods.

• Burgers and Sandwiches – Use this sauce as a tangy spread on your burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or wraps.
• Chicken – This sauce is ideal for chicken nuggets and chicken strips.
• French Fries – Take a break from ketchup and level up your French Fries. 
• Fried Appetizers or Vegetables – This is a great dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks and breaded or tempura vegetables. 
• Salad – Instead of Thousand Island or Ranch dressing, use this creamy homemade sauce instead. 

How Long Can I Store This Copycat Zesty Sauce?

Store your homemade zesty sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about one to two weeks. You can freeze the zesty sauce, but it is important to note that it may undergo some changes in texture when thawed. Unfortunately, creamy sauces containing mayonnaise can separate or become watery after freezing and thawing. If you plan to freeze any leftovers, be sure to store the sauce in a freezer-safe container and seal it tightly. Label the container with the date and then place it in the freezer. It should last for up to three months.

In Summary

If you are a fan of Burger King's Zesty Sauce and have trouble finding it, our copycat recipe will help you through any Burger King shortages. You can also use your homemade Zesty Sauce on a variety of foods, such as hamburgers, mozzarella sticks, and fried vegetables. Once you perfect your homemade sauce, you may never feel the need to order it at Burger King again.

Burger King Zesty Sauce: Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 8

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Serve this Copycat Burger King Zesty Sauce with your favorite dishes like burgers, fries, or chicken nuggets. Enjoy your homemade version of this classic fast-food condiment!

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 3 drops soy sauce

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, white vinegar, salt, and sugar. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

2. Add the cayenne pepper to the mixture. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of spiciness. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the cayenne pepper throughout the sauce.

3. Finally, add the soy sauce to the mixture. The soy sauce adds depth of flavor and richness to the sauce. Mix well to incorporate the soy sauce evenly into the sauce.

4. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, sugar, or cayenne pepper according to your preference.

5. Store it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

• Prep Time: 10

The image featured at the top of this post is ©icosha/Shutterstock.com.

The post Burger King Zesty Sauce: Copycat Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Zodiac birthstones are linked to astrological signs and are not the same as traditional birthstones, linked to months. There are twelve zodiac signs, and each one is connected to a specific gemstone. The zodiac cycle begins with the fire sign of Aries and ends with the water sign of Pisces. Furthermore, these gemstones reflect the dominant characteristics of their zodiac sign.

Astrologers believe that each zodiac gemstone amplifies the specific energy of its associated zodiac sign. Many people wear their zodiac birthstones as a symbol of their identity and for good luck. Additionally, some believe these gemstones provide specific health benefits. We will explore each zodiac birthstone, its meaning, history, and characteristics.

Free Birthstone Zodiac Chart With Meanings Explained

Capricorn (January) – Garnet

Represents love, life, and protection 

Garnet is a gemstone that has been popular in jewelry since the Bronze Age. It comes in a range of colors, from fiery red to a rich dark green. The name “garnet” comes from the Latin word “granatus,” which means “seed.” The crystals of the garnet reminded people of the seeds of the pomegranate, hence the name.

Throughout history, many cultures have believed that garnets possess special healing properties and offer protection. Astrologers believe that garnets provide strength, stability, and friendship to Capricorns and early Aquarians. This belief may be due to how garnets form from metamorphic rocks under intense heat and pressure., making them strong and reliable gemstones. Many believe that garnets pass on these strengths to their wearer.

Furthermore, people associate the red garnet with love and romance, believing it enhances sensuality and intimacy in relationships. Wearing or carrying garnets is thought to strengthen the bond between partners and foster loyalty. Some also believe that garnets balance the body's energies and promote a positive mindset in relationships.

Aquarius (February) – Amethyst

Represents peace, mental clarity, and healing 

Amethyst is the birthstone of Aquarius. Additionally, aquamarine and bloodstone are also linked to the Aquarius, Pisces, and early Aries zodiac signs. Like Aquarius, amethyst falls under the planet Saturn, governing both the Capricorn and Aquarius zodiac houses. In astrology, Saturn is a planet synonymous with discipline, responsibility, and structure. Aquarius sometimes has trouble with responsibility and dislikes structure, but the spiritual amethyst helps the Aquarian achieve balance.

Astrologers believe that amethyst, known for its calming properties and ability to balance mood swings, can soothe Aquarians. Aquarians tend to be pessimistic, but the amethyst gemstone can help alleviate stress, depression, and sadness.

The Greek origin of the term “amethyst” means “not drunk.” The ancient Greeks believed that the gemstone promoted sobriety and protected against drunkenness. They thought that wearing or drinking from vessels made of amethyst could keep them sober. The gemstone's reputation for providing mental clarity also comes from its word origin.

Pisces (March) – Aquamarine

Represents intelligence, loyalty, and friendship 

Aquamarine, which comes from the Latin word for “seawater,” was believed by ancient cultures to protect sailors since the colors were so similar to the ocean. Sailors would often wear aquamarine as a protective talisman. Since the symbol of the Pisces is two fish swimming in opposite directions, aquamarine accurately reflects the water aspects of the Piscean personality.

Aquamarine is the perfect gemstone for Pisces, the most intuitive and compassionate zodiac sign. It has calming properties that help balance the emotional Piscean personality. Additionally, aquamarine stimulates the throat chakra, which can assist Pisces in speaking their mind without worrying about hurting others' feelings. Lastly, this gemstone is believed to have a positive impact on relationships and friendships, casting a spell of positivity around those who wear it.

Aries (April) – Diamond

Represents clarity, strength, and abundance

Aries and diamonds are the perfect match of strength and brilliance. As the first sign in the zodiac wheel and the sign who always wants to be first in everything, Aries is perfectly represented by this stone. Not only is the diamond one of the most highly sought-after stones in the world, it is one of the toughest and most brilliant stones around.

Tradition holds that a diamond, symbolizing clarity, strength, and abundance, is the most popular choice for wedding rings because these qualities are essential for a successful marriage. Furthermore, the diamond is a gift for the 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries, marking these significant milestones in a couple's life and celebrating their enduring love and commitment.

Diamonds have been a symbol of wealth and abundance among the rich and royalty since the 4th century BCE. Historians believe that the first diamond engagement ring was given to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke Maximillian of Austria in 1477. In the medieval period, a poet believed that diamonds were effective against the evil eye. This belief might have contributed to the idea of the diamond as a protective and healing stone.

Taurus (May) – Emerald

Represents rebirth, love, and harmony  

The emerald, which is the primary birthstone for the grounded and practical Taurus, represents this Earth sign's connection to the beauty of nature as reflected in the emerald's brilliant green hues. The planet Venus rules the astrological sign Taurus, and it is often associated with love and beauty. Furthermore, the emerald gemstone has symbolic ties to this particular deity. As a result, the emerald represents love and prosperity in romance.

Egyptian queen Cleopatra was often seen wearing emeralds during her reign. Moreover, she was buried with them because the ancient Egyptians believed they would protect and guide her in the afterlife. This Taurus birthstone became associated with magic during the medieval period when people believed emeralds could break enchantments and act as a truth-telling stone. Today, many believe that the emerald is the luckiest stone for the Taurus zodiac sign because it promotes love and harmony.

Gemini (June) – Pearl

Represents purity, innocence, and integrity

Represented by twins, Gemini is a zodiac sign with a famously dual nature, which the pearl has come to represent. Tradition holds that the pearl represents dualities such as life and death as well as joy and sorrow. As a jewel created in the sea, the pearl represents the transformative nature of life, which the Gemini also boldly embodies. Gemini is a mutable sign, which means they can quickly adapt to new situations.

The pearl, which is typically white, although they sometimes appear translucent, gray, or silver, is a symbol of purity and innocence. In Hinduism, people consider the pearl as a representation of feminine beauty and associate it with mothers and motherhood. Many believe that wearing pearls enhances the best qualities of Geminis, such as their love of conversation, adventure, and family. Additionally, people think that pearls help the wearer live a more balanced life.

Cancer (July) – Ruby

Represents love, passion, and courage 

Famous for its red stone, although they sometimes appear magenta or burgundy, the ruby has long been tied to love and passion. This symbolism is due, in part, to the color red, which represents love in Western culture. However, it also stems from the belief that wearing rubies can attract a partner and help form passionate, emotional bonds. Others believe that the ruby gives off healing vibrations that help the brokenhearted recover and learn to trust again.

Ancient cultures also believed in its healing powers. Some cultures believed that the red ruby could stop bleeding and inflammation and help keep the body warm. Additionally, during the Middle Ages, many thought that wearing a ruby could protect a person from misfortune and disease. In Burmese folklore, soldiers believed that a ruby could make them invincible in battle only if it were inserted into their body.

The ruby, one of the world's rarest gemstones, has a special connection with the Cancer zodiac sign. The Cancer personality is known to crave comfort and love above all. They are also famous for their sensitive natures and are easily hurt. Tradition suggests that wearing a ruby can instill in those born under this sign the confidence and courage they sometimes lack. Moreover, it may help to protect them from other people's rudeness or harshness.

Leo (August) – Peridot 

Represents strength, healing, and good luck 

Peridot represents the regal fire sign of Leo. Created deep in the Earth's mantle under intense pressure and hot conditions, this stone was popular among the ancient Egyptians. Peridot was mined from an island in the Red Sea known as “Topazios” by the ancient Egyptians who called the stone by the same name. It was often used to adorn the deathbeds of Egyptian royals. It also appears in religious artifacts and jewelry.

Moreover, the peridot gemstone is associated with the heart chakra. This makes Peridot the perfect stone for Leos, who represents the heart of the zodiac. People believe that wearing the peridot gemstone can help open the heart to love. They also believe it helps the dramatic Leo receive love more gracefully. Additionally, ancient cultures believed peridot contains detoxifying properties. Many thought it could clear up skin problems, reduce fever, and even ease the pain of childbirth.

Despite Leos being known for their hot-headedness, many believe that peridot has a calming effect on these roaring lions. Mythology says that peridot brings good luck to its wearer. Furthermore, the gemstone enhances focus, making it particularly beneficial for the goal-oriented yet easily distracted Leo. Its beauty also captivates the style-loving Leo.

Virgo (September) – Sapphire

Represents wisdom, loyalty, and nobility 

The blue sapphire represents the analytical and hardworking sign of Virgo. The sapphire is second only to the diamond in hardness. People have highly valued sapphires for centuries, and ancient texts dating back to 800 BCE mention them. In ancient Greece, they believed that sapphires bring good luck, and in the medieval period, people wore them as a protective amulet. The stone's blue color represented heaven for medieval Catholics. As a result, it frequently appears in ancient church relics. Moreover, members of royalty frequently adorned themselves with sapphires. The prized gemstone was a symbol of their status and authority.

Practical and detail-oriented, Virgos are also an anxious and nervous sign. The sapphire is a calming stone, especially beneficial to Virgos. The positive energy of sapphires also helps the generally pessimistic Virgo. Furthermore, sapphire also assists them in their hardworking endeavors. Like the sapphire, Virgo endures, and wearing this blue stone enhances their best qualities.

Libra (October) – Opal

Represents hope, creativity, and innocence 

The opal gemstone is unique, with no two Opals appearing the same. This stone comes in various colors, ranging from milky white to iridescent. It often has a strong orange hue. Many people believe that this gemstone emits a calming and balancing energy, two qualities that the fair-minded Libra greatly values. Libra, represented by the Scales of Justice, strives to make things fair for everyone. The Libra has a reputation for being the peacemaker of the zodiac.

The zodiac sign of Libra is governed by the planet Venus, which gives it a personality that revolves around matters of the heart. After all, Venus was the goddess of love. Libras tend to be affectionate, but they can also appear flighty. Wearing an opal may help them stay grounded and focused; moreover, it may enhance their creativity and help them bring people together.

Scorpio (November) – Topaz

Represents strength, wisdom, and courage 

Scorpio, which is ruled by the planet Pluto, is known for its intense and mysterious energy. This zodiac sign is symbolized by the scorpion, which can be intimidating for some people. However, Scorpios are not as scary as their symbol suggests. In fact, they are known for their loyalty, protectiveness, and emotional intuition. They are also a transformative sign and always open to change. According to mythology, the stinger of the scorpion is represented by the topaz gemstone.

The topaz is a fiery gemstone that was frequently used as a talisman against evil in ancient times. It comes in shades of orange and red and, like Scorpios, is multifaceted and reflects both light and darkness. It is believed that this stone emits an intense energy that affects the wearer, just like the Scorpio personality.

The topaz gemstone is associated with the third chakra, the solar plexus, which represents the ego and aids us in navigating through life. Scorpios are always searching for meaning and self-realization, and this stone's association with the third chakra reflects their personality. They embrace change and are always striving to grow and evolve.

Sagittarius (December) – Turquoise

Represents protection, good fortune, and success 

As the final Fire sign of the zodiac, Sagittarius is a generous, adventurous sign. They are also spiritual, always searching for the meaning of life. While they are natural leaders and explorers, they may sometimes come across as self-centered or vain. The gemstone turquoise, often referred to as the “Stone of Purification,” affects the Sagittarius positively.

Many think that turquoise helps Sagittarius to reconnect with their empathetic side, lessening their vain tendencies. As a stone formed by water, turquoise has a cooling effect on the fiery Sagittarian nature. Turquoise enhances their most positive qualities and aids in protecting the wearer.

Turquoise has symbolized good luck since ancient times. According to popular belief, holding a turquoise stone in the morning brings good fortune throughout the day. Sagittarius, represented by the Archer, benefits from this gemstone as it helps them ensure that all their arrows hit the intended target.

Final Thoughts

The gemstone that represents each zodiac sign often symbolizes its dominant traits. Many people believe that wearing their birthstone enhances their sign's best qualities, too. These gemstones have long histories and are steeped in symbolism and myth, similar to the zodiac signs themselves. By understanding your zodiac birthstone and its representation, you can connect with your unique place in the universe. Please use our zodiac birthstone chart to understand your birth easily.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock.com.

The post Free Birthstone Zodiac Chart With Meanings Explained appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Trees were the focal point of the Celtic belief system. The ancient Celtic druids believed that trees were sacred and deserved reverence. According to their beliefs, trees possessed special powers and were the homes of magical beings like fairies and other spirits.

The Celtic calendar, similar to the Chinese calendar, has thirteen lunar months that follow the cycles of the moon. Each lunar month in the Celtic calendar is twenty-eight days long and represented by a tree. People began associating certain trees with distinct personality traits, which eventually helped create Celtic astrology.

Additionally, the Celtic Tree Zodiac assigns a letter to each tree sign based on the ancient shamanic alphabet known as Ogham. Consequently, some call it the Ogham Zodiac instead of the Celtic Tree Zodiac. The Druids thought that these letters signified different magical aspects and traits. Furthermore, the Druids thought that the letters attracted good fortune, prevented harm, and enhanced inherent powers. By understanding this alphabet, the Druids thought one could tap into nature's divine energy to manifest desired outcomes.

Celtic astrology links personality traits and characteristics to tree signs, much like Western and Chinese astrology associate them with celestial objects and animals, respectively. Our simple chart can help you discover your Celtic Tree Zodiac sign. Once you find it, you can learn more about what your sign means in the article below.

Where Did the Celtic Tree Zodiac Come From?

The Celtic people created an astrological system known as the Celtic Tree Zodiac, based on the teachings of their Druids. The Druids were leaders, scholars, and priests within Celtic communities and originated from the Celtic people of Britain, Ireland, and Western Europe. However, the Druids' influence declined over time due to various factors, such as the Roman conquest and the spread of Christianity.

The Celtic Druids, in their complex spirituality, greatly valued nature and the divine. Accordingly, the Druids worshiped gods and goddesses connected to nature. Furthermore, they believed that spirits inhabited natural areas such as trees and rivers. The Druids performed rituals to honor these spirits and maintain harmony with the natural world. The Celtic Tree Zodiac evolved from this nature-based spiritual practice.

The ancient Druids thought of the universe as a great tree with deep roots and many branches, so it makes sense that their zodiac is tree-based. According to their astrological system, each tree sign represents a lunar month. Moreover, the Celtic Tree Zodiac takes into account the characteristics and symbolism of each tree, as well as its place in Celtic folklore and mythology.

While the Celtic Tree Zodiac is similar to other forms of astrology, it is unique in its focus on trees. Now is the chance to find out your Celtic Tree Zodiac sign and see what it reveals about your personality. By examining each sign in greater detail, we will learn about the qualities associated with each tree and their broader astrological significance.

Free Celtic Tree Zodiac Chart

Birch: The Achiever (December 24 – January 20)

• Character Traits: Ambitious, motivated, and passionate
• Ogham Letter: Beithe, which represents change, fresh starts, and new opportunities.
• Animals: White Stag and Golden Eagle
• Gemstone: Clear Quartz

The birch tree is a hardy tree that thrives in any environment where it is planted. Moreover, birch trees typically grow in clusters, with one seedling growing into an entire forest. People born under the birch sign come into the world during the darkest part of the year, and their sign represents light entering darkness. As a result, they are optimistic individuals who can see positivity in everything.

People born under this sign are resilient like birch trees and can thrive in any environment. They also exhibit high levels of motivation and ambition. Consequently, they are an inspiration to those around them. People also admire this sign's calmness under pressure. Their ability to both inspire and lead with calmness makes them exceptional leaders. Vine and Willow signs have the best compatibility with Birch.

Rowan: The Thinker (January 21 – February 17)

• Character Traits: Original, visionary, and creative
• Ogham Letter:  Luis, which represents awareness and comprehension.
• Animal: Green Dragon
• Gemstone: Peridot

The Celts believed that the Rowan tree protected against evil spirits. As a result, they often planted it near their homes or used it to make talismans and charms. The tree also had associations with healing and divination. Some believe that the Rowan tree was also part of Celtic burial rites, but this is difficult to confirm due to the limited historical documentation.

Those born under the sign of Rowan tend to be philosophers and visionaries. This sign also has a reputation as a loner. Often, people born under this sign struggle to connect with others because of their unique way of thinking. Yet, if they can overcome this tendency, they have the power to draw people in with their creative and unusual ideas. Those born under the Rowan sign are most compatible with the Hawthorn and Ivy signs.

Ash: The Enchanter (February 18 – March 17)

• Character Traits: Creative, intuitive, and spontaneous
• Ogham Letter: Nuin, which represents peace and calm.
• Animals: Seahorse and Seagull
• Gemstone: Coral

According to Norse mythology, Odin, the chief god, hung himself from Yggdrasil, the World Tree, for nine days and nights to gain the knowledge and wisdom of the runes. Ancient artists often depict Yggdrasil as an ash tree. Because the Norse and Celtic people lived in overlapping regions during the Viking Age, there was a cultural exchange of ideas, particularly in Britain and Ireland. Scholars debate the extent of direct influence between the two religions; however, evident overlap exists between Norse and Celtic beliefs.

People born under the Ash sign have dreamy, intuitive natures. As a result, people born under the Ash sign draw much inspiration from the beauty of the natural world due to their reflective nature. Moreover, they tend to have a rich fantasy life and love to daydream. Their creative imaginations draw them to art and literature. People born under the Ash sign are most compatible with the Willow and Reed.

Alder: The Trailblazer (March 18 – April 14)

• Character Traits: Pioneer, creator, and pathfinder
• Ogham Letter: Fearn, which represents strength, protection, and resilience.
• Animals: Bear, Fox, and Hawk
• Gemstone: Ruby

The Alder tree is closely linked with the Celtic deity Bran, who the Druids believed to be the protector and guardian of Britain. People value the wood of the Alder tree due to its strong and water-resistant nature, which is a result of the tree's ability to grow in damp environments such as along the banks of rivers.

In Celtic tree astrology, the Alder sign represents natural leadership and pathfinding. Consequently, those born under this sign possess a fiery passion and charm that enables them to attract loyal followers easily. Due to their self-assurance and dislike for superficiality, they have a strong compatibility with the Hawthorn, Oak, and Birch signs. People born under the Alder sign prioritize action and results while highly valuing their time.

Willow: The Observer (April 15 – May 12)

• Character Traits: Intuition, flexibility, and emotional resilience
• Ogham Letter: Saille, which represents feminine energy, growth, and healing.
• Animals: Adder, Hare, and Sea Serpent
• Gemstone: Moonstone

The moon rules the Willow zodiac sign. Additionally, people connect the Willow with water and women's menstrual cycles. Because of its association with water, particularly rivers and streams, the ancient Druids saw the Willow, with its flexible branches, as a guardian tree.

Furthermore, people thought that the Willow tree possessed healing qualities. As it turns out, the Celts' belief in the healing properties of willow branches and leaves was not unfounded. Subsequent scientific research confirmed their intuition. We now know that willow bark contains a compound called salicin, akin to salicylic acid, which exfoliates the skin, clears congested pores, and alleviates inflammation.

The moon rules the Willow, so those born under this sign embody the mystical lunar qualities of creativity, intuition, and intelligence. Due to this lunar influence, they understand the cyclical nature of life, which results in a realistic life perspective. Their enhanced powers of perception usually help them identify where they will be successful. The Willow is most compatible with the Birch and Ivy signs.

Hawthorn: The Illusionist (May 13 – June 9)

• Character Traits: Curious, empathetic, and serene
• Ogham Letter: Huathe, which represents boundaries. protection, and purification.
• Animals: Owl and Bee
• Gemstone: Topaz

The ancient Celts saw the Hawthorn tree as a symbol of balance, protection, and transformation. As a result, they saw it as a sacred guardian tree, one that holds great significance in Celtic lore. According to Celtic beliefs, the Hawthorn tree wards off evil spirits and serves as a portal between the human world and the Otherworld.

Those born under the Hawthorn sign live a double life. While they appear completely ordinary to others, they have a deeply passionate and creative inner world. As a result, your first impression of those born under the Hawthorn sign is usually wrong. And because they are constantly evolving, they are incredibly adaptable to any situation. Moreover, those born under this sign are great listeners and secret keepers. These folks are most compatible with Ash and Rowan.

Oak: The Stabilizer (June 10 – July 7)

• Character Traits: Strong, stable, and wise
• Ogham Letter: Duir, which represents wisdom, protection, and the sacredness of nature.
• Animals: White Horse, Wren, and Otter
• Gemstone: Diamond

The Oak tree symbolizes strength, protection, and longevity, serving as a gateway between the earthly and divine realms. Taranis and Dagda, deities often connected with the Oak tree, embody thunder, lightning, and fertility. The Celts held sacred groves of Oak trees in high reverence, using them for worship and ritual. There, the Druids sought wisdom and connection with the gods.

Like the tree that represents them, those born under this sign have incredible strength and endurance. They also typically want to help those in need and advocate for the less fortunate. Moreover, they thrive in family and community settings because of their reliable natures and willingness to extend a helping hand. The Oak is most compatible with the Willow, Ash, and Reed signs.

Holly: The Ruler (July 8 – August 4)

• Character Traits: Truthfulness, determination, and sensitivity
• Ogham Letter: Tinne, which represents truth, balance, and regeneration.
• Animals: Cat and Unicorn
• Gemstone: Carnelian

Holly trees protect against negative energies and evil spirits, and people associate them with strength and resilience. In Celtic tradition, people highly regarded the Holly tree for its evergreen leaves and red berries during the winter season. The Celts believed that these berries symbolized vitality and represented the hope of revival amidst the darkness.

People born under the Holly sign have a natural talent for dealing with challenges. They show great skill and tact in overcoming obstacles. Furthermore, people born under the Holly zodiac sign exhibit a remarkable ability to bounce back from setbacks. While some people may interpret their unwavering confidence as arrogance, they also admire their leadership qualities. Beneath their ambitious exterior, they are kind, generous, and affectionate. The Holly sign is most compatible with the Ash and Elder signs, as they help keep them balanced and active.

Hazel: The Knower (August 5 – September 1)

• Character Traits: Wisdom, creativity, and foresight
• Ogham Letter: Coll, which represents divination, flexibility, and protection.
• Animals: Crane and Salmon
• Gemstone: Amethyst

The Hazel tree symbolizes wisdom, inspiration, and divination in Irish mythology. According to a well-known folktale, nine hazel trees surround the Well of Wisdom. These trees drop hazelnuts into the well, and whoever eats these nuts gains knowledge and poetic inspiration.

In another folktale entitled “The Salmon of Knowledge,” a hazel tree grows beside the Well of Wisdom. When a salmon eats the nuts from the hazel tree, he gains all the knowledge of the world. Perhaps for this reason, the ancient Celtic priests and seers used Hazel wands for divination and magical rituals.

Those born under the Hazel sign are highly intelligent, efficient, and organized. Furthermore, they excel in academia due to their innate ability to retain and recall information. They can effortlessly recite and explain various subjects with remarkable accuracy. Occasionally, this braininess makes them appear like a know-it-all to others. However, these folks are genuinely smart and are usually right.

They also have keen analytical skills and excel at anything that allows them to put those skills to work. Unfortunately, Hazel's need for control and order can lead to compulsive behavior if left unchecked. This sign finds harmony with Hawthorn and Rowan.

Vine: The Equalizer (September 2 – September 29)

• Character Traits: Passion, creativity, and resilience
• Ogham Letter: Muin, which represents connection, celebration, and growth.
• Animals: Lizard, Hound, and White Swan
• Gemstone: Emerald

The ancient Celts saw that people spoke freely after drinking wine, so they connected the Vine with truth-telling and the gift of prophecy. Additionally, people saw the Vine as representing community and celebration since the sharing of wine with others brings joy and laughter.

The Vine is the most unpredictable zodiac sign in the Celtic Tree Zodiac. Since they are born close to the autumn equinox, their personality is more changeable than other signs. Indecisive, they are often full of contradictions and find it hard to choose a side in debates.

However, they are sure about the things they enjoy in life, which are food, wine, music, and art. This zodiac sign possesses a refined taste and relishes indulging in enjoyable experiences. They prefer luxury and refinement above all. This sign's expensive tastes pair well with the Hazel and the Willow.

Ivy: The Survivor (September 30 – October 27)

• Character Traits: Adaptable, determined, and loyal
• Ogham Letter: Gort, which represents growth, loyalty, and regeneration.
• Animals: Boar, Butterfly, and Goose
• Gemstone: Opal

Ivy represents luck and can famously grow anywhere. However, gardeners know how quickly it takes over wherever it is planted, so it is often seen as a parasitic plant. The Celts thought Ivy would protect them from curses and evil spirits. Consequently, people allowed Ivy to cover the outside of their homes, and it is often found at burial sites. As a result, people saw Ivy as a symbol of resilience and transformation and as a connection to the spirit realm.

People born under Ivy have gentle natures and offer nurturing support. Their sharp intellect and ability to overcome challenging odds are often overlooked due to their giving nature. This sign, born when the sun is beginning to wane, often has adversity in their life, but they always approach it with grace and perseverance. Ivy does best with the strong signs of Ash and Oak.

Reed: The Inquisitor (October 28 – November 24)

• Character Traits: Adaptable, resilient, and intuitive
• Ogham Letter: Ngetal, which represents connection, healing, and protection.
• Animals: Hound and Owl
• Gemstone: Jasper

Typically found by rivers or in marshlands, the ancient Celts used reeds to make arrows. Reeds came to symbolize growth, adaptability, and flexibility. Moreover, since they grow near water, Reeds represent the fluidity of life and emotional depths.

The Reed zodiac sign always wants to know the truth and will passionately search for the hidden meanings of things. As a result, they love legends and stories as well as gossip and scandals. Their dedication to finding the truth means they often make great detectives, journalists, or archeologists. While this sign tends to manipulate and scheme, their relentless quest for truth means they get along well with the Ash or Oak signs.

Elder: The Seeker (November 25 – December 23)

• Character Traits: Wisdom, healing, and strong intuition
• Ogham Letter: Ruis, which represents the cycle of life, connection, and foresight.
• Animals: Badger, Black Horse, and Raven
• Gemstone: Jet

The Elder tree has the nickname “fairy tree” because the Celts thought that fairies and other spirits lived inside it. The ancient Celts considered these trees as the gateway to the realm between life and death. Moreover, they often planted these trees near their homes to protect them from evil.

Individuals born under this sign have an unrestrained and adventurous nature, making them the daredevils of the zodiac. Due to their freewheeling lifestyle, they are often outsiders because people misunderstand them. Despite their wildness, they genuinely care about other people's feelings and eagerly want to help.

Furthermore, they feel drawn towards the deeper questions of life and possess a philosophical inclination that others might miss due to their boisterous personality. Being born at the end of the cycle, those born under the Elder possess wisdom because they know life is short and should be enjoyed. The Elder is most compatible with the Alder and Holly signs.

In Summary

The ancient Druids based the Celtic Tree Zodiac on the trees they considered sacred. Their system correlates each tree sign with a specific period based on the thirteen lunar cycles of the moon. Moreover, each tree sign has unique personality traits that are specific to their lunar month. Although the Celtic Tree Zodiac is not as well-known as the Chinese zodiac or Western astrology, it provides an alternative viewpoint on individual personality traits. With our simple chart, you can quickly discover and then learn about your Celtic Tree Zodiac sign.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Kiselev Andrey Valerevich/Shutterstock.com.

The post Use This Chart to Discover Your Celtic Zodiac Tree Sign appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Pork roast and pork shoulder differ significantly. Specifically, the term “pork roast” refers to cuts from the loin or sirloin area, although it can also refer to various cuts. Pork shoulder, also known as “Boston butt,” is cut from the shoulder area and has a marbled and flavorful appearance due to its richness in fat.

Because of the differences in taste and texture, these cuts are usually not interchangeable in recipes. To help you understand the distinctions between pork roast and pork shoulder, we will go over their pros and cons, as well as the recommended cooking methods for each. Additionally, we will provide some suggestions on how to serve each of these cuts of meat once you have prepared them. So, should you choose pork roast or pork shoulder for your next pork dish?

Pork Roast vs. Pork Shoulder: What Sets Them Apart?

The main things that set these meats apart are their tenderness, fat content, and texture. Since pork roast is a lean and tender cut of meat, roasting it in the oven is usually the best way to prepare it. Moreover, this meat is usually the main course of a meal. Due to its leanness, it takes less time to cook than pork shoulder, which is a tougher and fattier cut of meat. However, because it is a thinner, leaner cut of meat, it can dry out easily during cooking. If it dries out, pork roast is tough and less tasty. The smoky flavor of pork roast adds to its flavorful juices, so many cooks use the juice to make an excellent gravy or sauce.

The pork shoulder is a big, fatty, square cut of meat that requires slow cooking or braising to tenderize it. You can also divide it into smaller pieces, like pork chops. Braising or smoking is the best way to cook it due to its tough texture and high fat content. Smoking and braising give this meat a tender texture and a more flavorful taste.

Choosing Between Pork Roast vs. Pork Shoulder?

When choosing between pork roast and pork shoulder, consider what kind of dish you plan to prepare. Also, consider the cooking method. Since pork roast is a leaner cut of meat with a finer texture, it is best for quick roasting, grilling, or pan-searing. Moreover, pork roast cooks faster and has less fat.

On the other hand, pork shoulder is a great choice for dishes like pulled pork sandwiches or stew. This meat requires longer cooking times to break down collagen and add texture. Additionally, pork shoulder is less tough when it is slow-cooked or braised.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Pork Roast vs. Pork Shoulder?

Pork roast is a leaner meat, making it a healthier choice for those watching their fat intake. However, less fat also results in slightly less juicy and flavorful meat. If you need to prepare meat in a hurry, pork roast is the better choice because you can grill, roast, or pan-sear it.

Since pork shoulder requires longer cooking times, it is less convenient if you are in a hurry. However, it has more fat than pork roast, so it is generally a more flavorful cut of meat. Another pro for pork shoulder is that it is a more cost-effective option if you are on a budget. This large cut of meat can make a variety of meals, from pulled pork sandwiches to stew.

How to Prepare Pork Roast vs. Pork Shoulder

So, how do you prepare both pork roast and pork shoulder? For pork roast, you can either roast or grill it. To roast, preheat the oven to 350F. Cook the pork for twenty to twenty-five minutes per pound until it reaches 145F. For grilling, sear the pork on high heat. Then cook it for twenty to twenty-five minutes per pound on a cooler part of the grill.

Braising, slow cooking, and smoking are the three popular methods for cooking pork shoulder. To braise the pork, you need to brown the meat first and then simmer it in liquid for several hours. To slow cook, place the pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven with seasonings and juice. Then cook it on low heat for around six to eight hours until it falls apart. To smoke the meat, cook the pork shoulder with low heat and smoke for several hours. This method gives the meat a rich, smoky flavor.

You can serve pork roast and pork shoulder in a variety of ways. Pork roast is delicious with roasted vegetables and potatoes. Use the leftovers for sandwiches or even tacos. With pork shoulder, you can use the meat as a filling for quesadillas and nachos. And, of course, it can be used to make a pulled pork barbecue sandwich, best enjoyed with coleslaw and pickles.

Pork Roast vs. Pork Shoulder: Recipes and Serving Ideas

Now that we understand the difference between these two pork cuts, here are some ideas from Moms Who Think for recipes and the best sides for pork.

• The Best Crock Pot Pulled Pork Recipe – Easy and delicious, try this crock pot pulled pork recipe.
• Honey Mustard Pulled Pork – The honey mustard flavoring in this dish gives pulled pork a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Pork and Potatoes with Tomato Relish – If you love pork and tomatoes, this dish with a side of tomato relish will hit the spot.
• Pork Chops Divine – The two main ingredients in this recipe are pork chops and cranberries.
• Pulled Pork Side Dishes – Here are some great recommendations if you are searching for sides for pulled pork.
• Side Dishes – If you are looking for healthy side dishes, here are fifteen healthy sides to serve with pork.
• Fifteen Rice Side Dishes for BBQ – If you are looking for rice side dishes to serve with your next BBQ pulled pork sandwich night, here are fifteen to consider.

Pork Roast vs. Pork Shoulder: Nutritional Information

The nutritional differences between pork roast and pork shoulder are mainly due to the fat and protein content of each type of meat. Pork roast is leaner, which means it has fewer calories and less fat. It also contains slightly less cholesterol than pork shoulder. However, pork roast has more protein than pork shoulder.

On the other hand, pork shoulder contains twenty-two grams of fat, including eight grams of saturated fat. Pork shoulder has slightly less zinc than pork roast. Both types of pork contain no carbohydrates and provide the same amount of vitamin B12. The following chart provides a complete breakdown of both types of meat.

In Summary

When comparing pork roast and pork shoulder, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each. Pork roast is a leaner option with a finer texture, making it a great choice for quicker cooking methods like roasting or grilling. Overall, it is a healthier choice because it has less fat, but it may be less juicy.

On the other hand, pork shoulder is richer in flavor due to its higher fat content. It is perfect for slow cooking or braising. While it takes longer to cook, it is the more versatile meat cut. Furthermore, pork shoulder tends to be the cheaper option. Since it is a larger cut of meat, you may be able to get more meals out of it. Ultimately, your preferences for leanness, cooking time, and the type of dish you want to prepare will determine whether you should choose pork roast or pork shoulder for your meal.

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Now that you know the difference between these different meats, why not try a tasty recipe? This juicy pork roast is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner that your whole family will enjoy.

Herb Pork Roast with Potatoes

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• Author: MomsWhoThink.com
• Total Time: 1 hour

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Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons chopped dried rosemary
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 (3-4 pound) boneless pork loin roast
• 4–6 medium red-skinned potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
2. Mix the garlic, rosemary, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper in a small bowl. Rub the pork loin with the mixture and place the pork on a rack in a shallow roasting pan.
3. Roast for 50 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, cover the potatoes with water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, and cook for about 10 minutes until barely tender. Drain and let cool.
5. Toss the potatoes with the olive oil, thyme, remaining ½ teaspoon of salt, and remaining ½ teaspoon of pepper in a large bowl.
6. Place the potatoes around the pork loin and roast for an additional 45 to 60 minutes or until the pork registers at least 155 degrees F on a meat thermometer.
7. Cover the roast with foil and let stand for about 15 minutes before slicing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

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The post Pork Roast vs. Pork Shoulder: Which Should You Choose? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Due to their similarity, people often mistake pork belly and side pork for each other. We will discuss the differences between pork belly and side pork and also take a look at their nutritional value. Moreover, we will provide some recipes and suggestions for preparing both types of pork.

Pork Belly vs. Side Pork: Why They Are Different

It can be difficult to distinguish between pork belly and side pork as they are quite similar. Knowing the primals, which is the name for the different parts of the pig that produces meat, can help us differentiate between the two. There are four primals in total: the loin (also known as the back of the pig), the back leg (which is commonly used for carving ham), the shoulder, and the side.

The pork belly comes from the underside of the pig close to the loin. Moreover, pork belly is a fatty cut of meat. Spareribs also come from this same area of the pig. Side pork comes from the pig's upper belly, and it is meatier and less fatty than pork belly. For this reason, some consider it a healthier option than pork belly.

Pork Belly vs. Side Pork: Texture and Taste

The belly of a pig yields a boneless and fatty cut of meat known as pork belly. This meat cut is characterized by its juicy texture and high-fat content. While it is commonly used for making bacon, pork belly is also a standalone dish. Moreover, pork belly is rich in flavor and has a melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked correctly.

Side pork, on the other hand, is a similar cut of meat that also includes the rib. As a result, side pork is different in flavor and texture from pork belly. Side pork, usually sold in slices, is fried, grilled, and roasted. Furthermore, side pork is also a popular ingredient in stews and casseroles.

Both pork belly and side pork are famous for their rich and flavorful taste. Moreover, both are versatile cuts of meat that complement a variety of recipes. Cooks often add pork belly to soups and stews to add flavor, while side pork commonly appears in breakfast dishes like bacon and eggs. Both cuts of meat are also great for adding flavor to sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.

Bacon and Pancetta

Many people often mistake side pork for bacon and pancetta, but side pork differs from these two cuts of meat. Side pork is raw, uncured, and unsmoked meat, while bacon is cured and smoked. Although one can use side pork to make bacon, some people prefer side pork because it has a natural flavor that lends itself to various recipes.

Pancetta, a thinly sliced meat cured with spices and salt, is a type of Italian bacon that originates from the pig's belly. Pancetta is a popular choice for enhancing the flavor of Italian dishes. Compared to side pork, pancetta is less versatile but is an excellent way to add taste to specific dishes. Furthermore, side pork includes the rib and is a thicker cut of meat, while pancetta is sliced thinly and does not include the rib.

Pork Belly vs. Side Pork: Nutritional Differences

When it comes to nutrition, there are clear differences between pork belly and side pork. The pork belly is usually the pig's fattiest portion, making it more flavorful. However, it has more calories, fat, and cholesterol than side pork. On the other hand, pork belly contains more iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 than side pork. In addition, pork belly is a better source of protein than side pork. Both pork belly and side pork are low in carbohydrates.

Remember that the nutritional value of meat is influenced by the way it is cooked. Grilling, smoking, or slow-cooking are common methods for preparing pork side ribs while roasting, braising, or frying are often used for pork belly. Your individual dietary preferences and cooking methods will ultimately determine which option is healthier.

Pork Belly vs. Side Pork: What Are the Best Ways to Cook Them?

There are many great ways to prepare these two cuts of meat. Recipe ideas for pork belly include roasted pork belly, pork belly ramen, and crispy pork belly tacos. For side pork, try grilled pork chops, bacon-wrapped pork tenderloin, or pork belly burnt ends. Here are a few of our favorite recipes for each.

• Country Ribs with Homemade Barbecue Sauce
• Easy Barbecue Pork Riblets
• Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Fajitas
• BBQ Pork Shoulder Steaks
• How to Braise, Slow Cook, or Oven Roast Pork Belly

In Summary

Pork belly and side pork differ in terms of taste, texture, and nutritional content, although they are similar cuts of meat. Pork belly provides more nutritional benefits but also has more fat and calories. On the other hand, side pork is a leaner cut of meat that often includes ribs.

People typically fry, grill, or roast side pork, while braising, slow-cooking, or oven-roasting is the usual way to cook pork belly to bring out its rich taste. The nutritional benefits of each cut depend on individual dietary needs and cooking preferences. Both cuts can be part of a healthy, balanced diet.

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Crispy Pork Belly with Garlic Miso Glaze

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1 lb (450g) pork belly, skin-on
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tablespoons white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Score the skin of the pork belly with a sharp knife, making shallow cuts.
3. Season the pork belly generously with salt and black pepper, rubbing it into the skin and flesh.
4. Heat vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the pork belly skin-side down in the skillet.
5. Sear the pork belly until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Flip the pork belly over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the pork belly is cooked through and tender.
7. Meanwhile, prepare the garlic miso glaze. In a small saucepan, combine minced garlic, white miso paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly.
8. Once the pork belly is cooked, remove it from the oven and brush the garlic miso glaze over the top.
9. Return the pork belly to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
10. Remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
11. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©masa44/Shutterstock.com.

The post Pork Belly vs. Side Pork: Main Differences and How to Cook Each appeared first on Moms Who Think.

If you want to find the most popular pellet grill brands, look no further than Recteq and Traeger. If you are looking for a grill to suit your family's needs, deciding between these two brands can be tough. While Recteq (Rec Tec) is a newer grill, it has received consistently high ratings. On the other hand, Traeger is an established and trustworthy brand. After researching both brands, we will compare and contrast the similarities and differences between both so you can choose the best grill for your next family barbecue.

Recteq vs. Traeger: Comparing the Two Brands

Recteq, also known as “Rec Tec,” is a popular brand in the world of pellet grills. The company was founded in 2009 by Ray Carnes and Ron Cundy, with a focus on grills that use wood pellets as fuel to give a smoky flavor to the food. The brand is known for its state-of-the-art technology and features. It has a reputation for producing durable and innovative pellet grills. Recteq's digital controllers provide precise temperature control, making it easier to achieve consistent grilling results. Additionally, Recteq provides excellent customer service and support for their products. Moreover, the company stays current with the latest advancements in grilling technology.

Joe Traeger, the founder of Traeger Grills, is credited with creating the world's first pellet grill in 1985. Traeger's goal was to combine the convenience of a gas grill with the flavor of wood-fired cooking. The company quickly gained a reputation for its user-friendly design and unique ability to add flavor to food. As more pellet grills entered the market, Traeger continued to innovate, introducing new models and features to their basic grills. Today, Traeger offers a range of smart technology and accessories for outdoor grilling enthusiasts.

Recteq vs. Traeger: Comparing Two Popular Models

To get an idea of what each brand offers, let us compare the newer RT-700 WIFI-enabled Pellet Grill with the comparable Traeger Ironwood 650.

The pros of Recteq's flagship grill, the RT-700, include stainless steel construction and a large 1,054 square-inch grill. This grill also includes a six-year warranty. However, for an entry-level pellet grill, the cost is pretty high at approximately $1,200. Additionally, the app, while functional, lacks features such as the ability to set up different temperatures on a timer. Customers might expect more features in a grill of this price range.

The Traeger Ironwood 650 has numerous advantages, such as a high-functioning digital controller. It also has a downdraft exhaust system that helps maintain heat and a lower grate that is perfect for searing meat. The grill boasts several new technologies, including a D2 system, TurboTemp, a timer, and a “keep warm” feature. It also comes with WiFi and its own app. Additionally, it is compatible with Alexa. However, it has a shorter warranty period of only three years and a smaller grill space.

Recteq vs. Traeger: Other Key Considerations

The RT-700, with its forty-pound capacity, ensures you can cook for forty hours without the interruption of a refill. In contrast, the Traeger, with a 20-pound capacity, provides a shorter cooking time. The Recteq also features an interior light, a feature absent in the Traeger. Additionally, the RT-700 impresses with its temperature control setup, which includes a second temperature probe.

Additionally, both brands get high marks for their customer service. While Traeger uses helpful US-based representatives who are knowledgeable about their products, Recteq actually puts the phone number of the company's founders on its grills. For customer service, this is impressive since it means you get support from someone who helped develop the grill. Recteq also offers more support options, including email and live chat.

In Summary

Both Recteq and Traeger are reputable grill brands that use high-quality materials to build durable and sturdy pellet grills. They both incorporate advanced technology, such as digital controllers for precise temperature control and monitoring. Both brands offer a range of grill sizes to accommodate different cooking needs, although the cooking surface may vary between models.

Both brands not only provide a variety of accessories to enhance the grilling experience but also use smart technology. This technology is a game-changer as it enables you to monitor your grill remotely, adding a layer of convenience to your grilling experience. Moreover, both companies have excellent customer service. Ultimately, your choice of grill will depend on your budget, cooking needs, and how much importance you place on technology in your grilling experience.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Badger13/Shutterstock.com.

The post Recteq vs. Traeger: Which Grill Is Best for You? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Spinach and lettuce are two popular leafy greens that are highly nutritious and low in calories, making them great additions to any diet. However, choosing between the two can be difficult as they both offer unique health benefits. Both greens are rich in essential vitamins and minerals and can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, wraps, and smoothies.

We will compare the nutritional profiles of spinach and lettuce to determine which green vegetable provides more health benefits. So, let us find out which one wins the battle between spinach and lettuce.

Spinach vs. Lettuce: What Is Spinach?

Originating in Persia, spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family, which also includes beets, quinoa, and Swiss chard. Spinach has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor and dark green leaves. Moreover, it can be eaten raw or cooked. 

Spinach contains several important plant compounds that aid the body in a number of ways. 

• Lutein – Lutein has antioxidant properties and supports eye health. Research suggests that a diet rich in lutein may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts, two common eye conditions that can lead to vision loss.
• Kaempferol – This antioxidant compound may help decrease inflammation in the body. Researchers believe it may have anti-cancer properties and may slow the progress of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Finally, this compound may reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.
• Quercetin – Studies show that this compound reduces inflammation from chronic diseases and may improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving blood vessel function.
• Zeaxanthin – Like lutein, zeaxanthin supports eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The Health Benefits of Spinach

It's a well-known fact that spinach offers many health benefits, including promoting eye health, fighting cancer, and regulating blood pressure. However, there are some downsides to spinach.

One of the negative effects of spinach is that it can cause kidney stones. Spinach is rich in calcium and oxalates, which can lead to the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, people who are at risk of developing kidney stones should avoid consuming spinach.

Moreover, spinach helps in blood clotting, which can be problematic for people who are on blood thinning medications. Those taking blood thinners to prevent clotting should avoid spinach since it contains high levels of Vitamin K, which causes blood clotting.

Spinach vs. Lettuce: What Is Lettuce?

Lettuce belongs to the Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies and sunflowers. This leafy green vegetable commonly appears raw in salads and as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, and other dishes. Lettuce has four different types, each with unique characteristics in terms of flavor, texture, and appearance.

• Celtuce lettuce – Asparagus lettuce or stem lettuce, also known as celtuce lettuce, is a type of lettuce with a thick stem that people typically eat instead of its leaves. People eat celtuce raw in salads, stir-fried, pickled, or added to soups and stews. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture that resembles that of a cucumber. Celtuce lettuce is more popular in Asian countries like China than in Western countries.
• Head lettuce – Head lettuce, which includes iceberg and butterhead lettuce, is named after its tightly packed head. This kind of lettuce has a mild taste and is slightly sweet with crisper leaves—this is the kind of lettuce that most often appears in salads and sandwiches.
• Leaf lettuce – Leaf lettuces have a looser leaf structure and are not tightly packed. Some of these lettuces are darker in color or have reddish leaves, like red leaf lettuce and oak leaf lettuce. The leaves of these lettuces have a mild flavor and a more delicate texture than other kinds of lettuce.
• Romaine lettuce – Romaine lettuce, which is also known as Cos lettuce, is a type of lettuce that has long and slender leaves that are closely packed together. This lettuce variety has a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter taste. It commonly appears in Mediterranean cuisine, especially in dishes like Caesar salad and Greek salad. Additionally, it is used as a bread or tortilla substitute in sandwiches and wraps.

The Health Benefits of Lettuce

Like spinach, lettuce is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins A, K, and C, as well as minerals like potassium and folate. Furthermore, lettuce has a lot of water, so it aids in hydrating the body. Moreover, lettuce contains dietary fibers, which aid the digestive system.

Additionally, lettuce contains antioxidants, including beta-carotene and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and stress in the body, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers. Its fiber and antioxidant content may also be good for the heart by reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol levels, and maintaining healthy blood pressure. Some studies also suggest that lettuce may improve sleep quality.

However, it is important to understand that different types of lettuce have varying levels of vitamins and nutrients. Moreover, it is crucial to wash lettuce thoroughly before consumption to eliminate dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residue. Despite these considerations, incorporating different varieties of lettuce into your diet can provide you with a range of vitamins and nutrients.

Spinach vs Lettuce: Nutritional Information

Spinach is packed with nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, folate, iron, and calcium. It is also rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for eye health. Additionally, it contains fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy digestive system.

Not only is lettuce low in calories and carbohydrates, but it contains some vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate. However, these are generally lower amounts compared to spinach. Lettuce is also a hydrating food due to its high water content, which can help in maintaining overall hydration and improve skin health. However, it is important to note that different types of lettuce have varying nutrient levels. Darker lettuce varieties, such as romaine lettuce, have more nutrients than lighter varieties, like iceberg lettuce.

Here is a comparison chart to outline the nutritional values of spinach vs. lettuce.

Spinach typically provides more vitamins and minerals than lettuce. However, this nutritional breakdown shows that both leafy greens are nutritious options.

In Summary

Both spinach and lettuce offer unique health benefits as nutritious leafy greens. Spinach, in particular, is more nutrient-dense than lettuce because it is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium. These vitamins make spinach an exceptionally healthy food. Additionally, spinach contains the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which benefit eye health. However, spinach may cause kidney stones and should be avoided by people using blood thinners.

Lettuce, on the other hand, is a valuable source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate, although it is lower in nutrients compared to spinach. Moreover, lettuce provides hydration to the body due to its high water content. However, the nutrient content of lettuce varies among different varieties. Darker lettuce varieties, like romaine lettuce, contain more nutrients than lighter varieties, such as iceberg lettuce. Finally, it is very important to wash lettuce to avoid bacteria, dirt, and pesticides.

The bottom line? Consuming both spinach and lettuce in a variety of dishes is essential for a healthy diet. Both provide vital nutrients and contribute to overall well-being.

Creamy Chicken Spinach Soup

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• Author: MomsWhoThink.com
• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can fat-free, reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans reduced-fat, reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (9 ounce) chicken breast, chopped and cooked
• 2 cups fat-free milk
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

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Instructions

1. Cook tortellini according to package directions, using 1 can broth instead of water. Add soup and remaining ingredients stirring well.
2. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until thoroughly heated.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

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The post Spinach vs. Lettuce: Which One Is Healthier for You? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

The Millennial generation, or Generation Y, includes individuals born between 1981 and 1996. In 2022, they made up 21.67% of the United States population. As a result, businesses want to know more about this generation's shopping habits, which has led to extensive market research.

According to the United States Census Bureau, baby boomers comprised approximately 21.2% of the population in 2021. Furthermore, Baby Boomers owned approximately 52.2% of the country’s wealth, making them a popular demographic for market researchers.

We examined the purchasing behaviors of these two very different generations to understand how and why certain brands resonate with them. We will examine the brands both generations endorse and explore the reasons behind their mutual appeal. Finally, we will explore the brands that enjoy popularity among Millennials while being overlooked by Boomers and try to understand why.

The Buying Habits of Millennials and Baby Boomers

According to market research, Millennials discover new products through social media, internet searches, and YouTube ads. While Millennials still shop retail, they buy more frequently online. Twenty-eight percent of polled Millennials made in-app purchases. Meanwhile, 26 percent of Millennials bought products based on social media influencer recommendations.

Another trait that emerged is the Millennials' preference for supporting businesses that prioritize social and environmental responsibility. Research indicates that over 40 percent of Millennials actively seek out companies that take a clear stance on social issues. This factor significantly influences their purchasing decisions, as they are more inclined to support brands that align with their values and beliefs.

Meanwhile, in a recent survey, Baby Boomers say that they discover new products through television ads, retail stores, and internet research. Social media is not as effective as a marketing tool for Boomers. According to recent data, only 17 percent discovered a new product. Meanwhile, only four percent of Boomers purchased a product via a social app. 

And while many Millennials gravitate towards companies that take a stance on social issues, Baby Boomers believe companies should not do this. In fact, if companies take this socially-conscious approach, it may discourage Baby Boomers from engaging with their brand or business.

What Brands Do These Generations Prefer?

Amazon is one of the few companies that every age group agrees upon, appearing in the top five for Gen Z/Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers alike. In fact, Boomers named it their number-one brand overall. Apple also made it into the top 10 for each age group and was in the top three for Boomers. However, there are several brands that Millennials embrace that Baby Boomers avoid.

The Top Five Brands Baby Boomers Prefer

Most younger consumers, including Millennials, are seeking out creative and consumer-focused brands and experiences rather than safe and traditional brand names. The Baby Boomers are the last group to hold onto brand loyalty out of nostalgia. Their love of nostalgia is evident in Macy's making it into their top five brands. Also, Boomers love deep discounts, so it is no surprise that Amazon and Costco appear on their list.

• Amazon
• Toyota
• Apple
• Costco
• Macy's

Furthermore, Boomers are the only age group showing a strong preference for consumer-packaged brands. Four of these brands were among their top 10, including Hershey's, General Mills-owned Pillsbury, Kellogg's, and Pepsi. However, according to the report, companies like Kellogg's face challenges in keeping up with younger, more health-conscious consumers.

The Top Five Brands Millennials Prefer

According to Market Watch, these are the five brands to which Millennials are most loyal, despite being characterized as a generation that dislikes brands. Additionally, Forbes states that this generation conducts more research before making purchases than previous generations. Data suggests that Millennials will consult 23 sources before deciding upon a purchase.

• Playstation
• Target
• Ford
• Disney
• YouTube

Fifty percent of Millennial shoppers expressed feeling an emotional connection with PlayStation more than any other brand. This Sony-owned video game system ranks number one among those ages 18 to 34. PlayStation scored the highest in the nostalgia category, probably because this generation grew up with unparalleled access to video games.

Now that we have a thorough understanding of the shopping habits of both Millennials and Baby Boomers, it is time for an in-depth examination of the top five brands that Millennials love that Baby Boomers tend to avoid.

PlayStation

Both the Millennial generation, born between 1981 and 1996, and Generation Z, born between 1995 and 2012, chose video game brands as their number one choice. Millennials are loyal to PlayStation, while Gen Z has shown a clear preference for Xbox. (It is interesting to note that there is an overlap in the years that define these two generations, leading to shared characteristics and interests.)

New data indicates that 77 percent of American Millennials ages 18-34 play video games to relax and unwind. Meanwhile, 60 percent play to escape from the reality of everyday life. In total, 51 percent of Millennial gamers agree that advertising helps them decide what to buy, compared to 47 percent of the general public.

PlayStation is not a brand that Boomers are drawn to, despite nearly 42 percent of this generation being video game players. Boomers are drawn to different games than Millennials. Furthermore, Boomers tend to spend far less time and money on video games than Millennials. On average, a Boomer will spend 2.5 hours a week gaming. Meanwhile, Millennials play an average of 22 hours per week.

Furthermore, in addition to preferences for gaming brands, each generation has different motivations for gaming. While Boomers also play to relax, they get more satisfaction from achievements and competition.

Target

According to Business Insider, the typical Target shopper is a Millennial suburban mom with a household income of $80,000. In fact, Target's average customer is a woman who is 39 years old, white, and married. Millennials love Target, so much of the brand's advertising is directed at this generation.

While Target is popular across several generations and has higher-than-average customer loyalty compared to other major retailers, it is not as popular with Baby Boomers. Stores like Macy's, Costco, and Walmart are more popular with this generation. Boomers are drawn to stores with deep discounts, which, along with their sense of nostalgia, explains why Target is less popular with this generation.

Ford

The Ford car company recognizes that older Millennials, who are now approaching the age of 40, are starting families and looking for larger vehicles. In a press release, the company stated, “America's largest demographic is beginning to do all of these things, just a bit later in life than their baby boomer parents once did.”

Until recently, some researchers believed Millennials disliked cars and were predicting the decline of large SUVs. However, this turned out not to be true. Instead, buying large cars was delayed because Millennials tend to marry and have children later in life due to economic reasons. Now that older Millennials have found some stability, they are able to make larger purchases like buying an SUV for their family.

Boomers, who are driving less now, gravitate towards smaller, economy cars and brands like Honda, Toyota, and Chevrolet. In fact, in 2021, the top car choice for older Boomers was the Toyota RAV4.

Disney

“Disney adult” is the sometimes not-so-nice nickname given to adults who still love all things Disney. These adults are typically Millennials. Their love of Disney may be due to nostalgia, as many cite Disney films as being an important part of their childhood.

During Disney+'s inaugural year, 44 percent of Millennials watched the channel at least once a week. Older Millennials are sharing their love of Disney with their families, with 49 percent of Millennial parents saying they use Disney+ at least once a week. However, so do 33 percent of childless Millennials. As a result, Disney is number four on the list of brands Millennials love.

Boomers are not flocking to the Disney brand. Perhaps this is because they are older and no longer have children. They may also long for the more affordable Disney World of the past. Other causes for this lack of interest may include the fact that Boomers came of age during the counterculture years of the 1960s. As a result, they may have been less interested in the family-oriented brand growing up.

In fact, this may be reflected in Boomers' television-watching habits. The Boomers who are watching Disney+ are not watching the classic Disney films. Data suggests they are watching the Star Wars franchise, which may remind them of taking their kids to see the original films. For all of these possible reasons, Disney is not a Boomer brand.

YouTube

YouTube will turn 20 in 2024. It averages 2.49 billion monthly viewers, making it a huge brand popular with younger generations. Researchers believe that 80 percent of people between the ages of 18 and 49 frequently use the platform. Furthermore, 54 percent of Millennials visit the website every day. Marketers have finally figured out that Millennials are not averse to branding, so it has become a popular marketing platform. YouTube is a great place to sell to Millennials, and they are buying from brand accounts in large numbers.

While it is not completely accurate to say that Boomers avoid YouTube, they tend to use the platform as a learning tool rather than for shopping. Even though Boomers have more spending capital than Millennials on average, less advertising is directed toward them, which also contributes to their buying less.

In Summary

Millennials make up 22.67% of the US population. As Millennials age and start families, marketers have begun to notice their brand loyalty, which is driven by values different from those of other generations, especially the Boomers. For example, Millennials prefer socially conscious brands, while Baby Boomers do not favor this approach.

Additionally, Millennials tend to make more online purchases and prefer buying from brands that boomers may not be as familiar with, such as PlayStation. Target's average customer is a Millennial mom, while boomers tend to favor stores such as Macy's, which they grew up with, and Costco, where they can find great value when shopping. Analyzing the brands that appeal to Millennials and that Boomers tend to avoid is a great way to understand the differences between these generations, which go beyond just the age gap.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©YAKOBCHUK VIACHESLAV/Shutterstock.com.

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With rising food costs, it is becoming more difficult to feed your family well while also sticking to your grocery budget. If your family enjoys chicken, we have eight budget-friendly dishes that cost less than $20 to make and are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Moreover, most of these dishes require minimal cleanup time. In many cases, these dishes yield leftovers that can feed the family again, saving you even more money.

In addition to providing you with carefully selected and tested recipes, we also offer detailed tips and strategies for planning affordable and delicious chicken dinners. Our goal is to help you make the most of your budget by maximizing the value and flavor of your meals.

The Best Money-Saving Tips for Chicken Dinners

When planning budget-friendly family meals, follow these general guidelines to stretch your money. Here are some of the best money-saving tips for preparing delicious chicken dinners on a budget.

• Buy family packs of meat and freeze them in individual bags. This method is more cost-effective than buying smaller packages of chicken. You can store any leftover chicken in freezer bags. A whole chicken can be stored for up to one year, while chicken pieces like cutlets will last in the freezer for up to nine months. Ground chicken can be safely stored for up to three months.
• Later in the day, supermarkets often discount rotisserie chicken for a quick sale before closing, so try to buy them at the end of the day.
• Cutting up a whole chicken can help you save money, as whole chickens are typically cheaper per pound than chicken breasts.
• You can always substitute the type of chicken in the recipe with whatever is on sale at the supermarket that week. For instance, using thighs instead of chicken breasts will not dramatically affect the taste of the recipe.
• Keep meals simple by preparing easy dishes like baked chicken and rice. Purchase vegetables that are on sale, as out-of-season veggies tend to be more expensive.

Cheesy Bacon BBQ Chicken Bake

This inexpensive one-pan recipe is incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Since it only requires one pan to make, the cleanup is also quick. While this barbecue bake can be a meal in itself, cole slaw, baked beans, or French fries are easy and inexpensive sides you can serve with this meal.

For this recipe, if preferred, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenders. Onions are optional but will add flavor. Furthermore, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and your favorite barbecue sauce. Finally, top with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and optional green onions.

Easy Chicken Enchiladas

These chicken enchiladas require only eight ingredients and can be prepared in just 30 minutes. All you need is red chile sauce, shredded chicken, cheese, and onions. In about 20 minutes, they bake in a 9×13 casserole dish and come out golden brown and delicious. If you like, you can garnish your enchiladas with cilantro and serve them with an inexpensive side dish like refried beans.

Creamy Ranch Chicken

This Ranch Chicken recipe is a quick skillet dish with a creamy sauce and zesty Ranch seasoning. Serve it over baked potatoes for an especially delicious experience, although this dish is also great with a side of vegetables.

Moreover, it is important to use Ranch seasoning mix for this recipe, not Ranch dip mix, as they taste different and have different uses. For a bacon ranch chicken dinner, you can also add bacon and cheese to this meal.

This dish is so delicious that you probably will not have any leftovers. However, if you do, you can store them in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

Easy Chicken Quesadillas

Chicken quesadillas are quick and easy to make. First, you cook the filling, then place it into a tortilla and fold it over to cook in the pan. If you are in a big hurry to make dinner, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken and save even more time. Furthermore, many inexpensive sides pair well with chicken quesadillas, including rice, refried beans, or salsa.

Easy Orange Chicken

This simple orange chicken recipe requires affordable ingredients: one bag of frozen popcorn chicken, one jar of orange marmalade, one cup of barbecue sauce, six tablespoons of soy sauce, and your choice of white or brown rice.

As the popcorn chicken heats up in the oven, mix the orange marmalade, barbecue sauce, and soy sauce in a medium-sized saucepan. Heat the mixture on medium-low until everything combines and the marmalade is completely melted. This process takes about five minutes. Once the popcorn chicken is done, pour the sauce over the chicken and mix well. Finally, serve this easy orange chicken over rice or with some inexpensive veggies.

Mexican Street Corn Chicken

This one-pan chicken dinner is incredibly inexpensive and easy to make. You can prep this Mexican street food dish and have it in the oven in as little as 10 minutes. Furthermore, the protein and the vegetables are combined in a single casserole dish. This combination not only enhances the overall flavor of the meal but also simplifies the preparation process. Finally, clean-up is a breeze since you only have to clean up one pan.

You can serve this hearty meal on flour tortillas or even on chips with salsa and guacamole. This chicken dinner also pairs well with Mexican rice, black beans, sautéed onions and peppers, or a side salad.

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice

This cheesy chicken broccoli and rice dish is a straightforward one-pot dinner recipe that can be effortlessly prepared on the stovetop. It requires only five simple ingredients: tender chicken, broccoli, rice, a flavorful chicken broth, and cheddar cheese. By combining these ingredients, you can have a satisfying and comforting meal on the table in just 30 minutes.

This recipe is also very adaptable. You can make it spicier by adding shredded pepper jack cheese. You can also add chili powder or cayenne pepper with the salt and pepper. Other great options include garlic powder, onion powder, diced onion, or fresh garlic.

Oven Baked Chicken and Rice

We love one-pot dinners that can be baked in the oven. This family-friendly one-pot dinner features tender, flavorful chicken baked with fluffy butter rice. Even better, it requires very little prep time and is a breeze to clean up.

While this meal is substantial enough to be served on its own, plain natural yogurt or Greek yogurt is an amazing addition to chicken and rice. Additionally, pairing a simple leafy green salad with a basic vinaigrette is perfect for this dish. Finally, consider roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans as possible side dishes.

In Summary

These eight chicken dishes are perfect for families who enjoy chicken and want to stick to a budget. Each dish is affordable, costing less than $20 to make, even if you decide to include additional side dishes. Furthermore, these recipes are easy to prepare and require minimal cleanup, making them ideal for busy families. Even if you are on a tight budget, you can still prepare delicious and healthy meals for your family with our suggestions, even when you are on the go.

Recipe Card

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.com.

The post 8 Chicken Dinner Recipes That Cost Less than $20 and Are Easy to Make appeared first on Moms Who Think.