Alfa Anderson Sings A Tribute to Luther Vandross

Former member of the iconic funk soul band Chic (“Le Freak”,” Good Times”, “I Want Your Love”),Alfa Anderson​  joins us on June’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast scheduled for Tuesday, June 13, 2017, ^ PM, EST.

For years, Alfa was an integral member of Luther Vandross‘ touring band and performed at Wembley Stadium, among many other prestigious venues around the world. Her vocals can be heard on popular Luther Vandross albums such as ‘Give Me the Reason’ and ‘The Night I Fell in Love’, which Rolling Stone Magazine voted as one of the 100 Best Albums of the Eighties.

Alfa will share the inspiration behind her heartfelt tribute to her friend, Luther Vandross, the single, “When Luther Sings​.”

SoulTracks said of “When Luther Sin​gs”​, “The feeling is at once nostalgic and modern, providing a summery vibe that is sure to make listeners groove both in the car and on the dance floor.”

Alfa will soon release her long-awaited debut solo album, ‘Music From My Heart‘​ in July.

A celebrated R&B and dance music icon, Anderson first starred in Julian “Canonnball” Adderley’s “Big Man” at Carnegie Hall before defining a whole new era in music as one of the original lead vocalists in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-nominated group CHIC. Her voice powered classics like “I Want Your Love” and the #1 pop hits “Good Times” and “Le Freak,” which was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. During her years as a New York session singer and touring vocalist, she sang background for music icons like Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin, Mick Jagger, Valerie Simpson, Bryan Ferry, and Teddy Pendergrass. She recently guested on the first CHIC single in 23 years “I’ll Be There” (2015) and scored a Top 10 Billboard Dance hit as a featured vocalist on Next Step’s single with Kathy Sledge and Aristofreeks, “Get On Up” (2016).

“Music From My Heart”​ is my first solo album. The only vision I had when I started this project was to write from the stillness of my mind and heart. As melodies and lyrics began to flow, I realized that I had plenty to say about life, about love, about friendship, about struggle, about coming to terms with who I am. Kudos to Producer/Arranger Bert Price who collaborated with me to complete ‘Music From My Heart’. ​ I share it with you with love and big hugs.”

Alfa Anderson also will celebrate the release of her album with an unforgettable night of music at Joe’s Pub on July 7 at 7:30pm. Tickets are currently on sale and can be purchased at Joe’s Pub  located at 425 Lafayette St (bet. E. 4th St & Astor Pl).

Old Hollywood Inspires Divabetic Mother’s Day Celebration


 

For the past twelve years at our Divabetic live events, on our podcasts and inner blog we’ve been promoting  a ‘New Attitude’ about living with diabetes to help you ‘Keep Your House A Home’ by learning to prevent a diabetes health-related complication from occurring.  Now we’re sharing our decade’s worth of our ‘diva brand of diabetes outreach’ advice and suggestions with you so that you won’t have to avoid the holidays in order to take charge of our diabetes.

Our Divabetic Mother’s Day Celebration embraces an Old Hollywood aesthetic to encourage you to shine the spotlight on you and your diabetes health! 

Sure, it can be difficult at times to enjoy the holidays when you’re living with diabetes especially if you feel like you can’t enjoy the foods your actually preparing for your family and friends! Why not take the opportunity this Mother’s Day to change your mindset as well as your family’s about what healthy tastes like?

One of our favorite experts,‘The Decadent Diabetic’ aka Chef Ward Alper shares this Oscar worthy menu for a Diabetic Mother’s Day Celebration.  The Decadent Diabetic’s menu includes Cucumber Soup, Smoked Salmon & Brie Omelet, Roasted Asparagus and Tart A Citron. Below is Chef’s Ward Alper’s recipe for Catalina Cucumber Soup. (We will be posting one recipe each day throughout the upcoming week).

Catalina Cucumber Soup Recipe by the Decadent Diabetic

(4 8 ounce servings, Net carbohydrates: 6 per serving)

Ingredients:

1 medium to large sweet onion Sliced (thick or thin, your choice)

2-3 tablespoons olive oil or butter

2-4 cloves crushed and chopped garlic (depends on how much you love garlic)

1 – big stalk of celery, roughly chopped

Black pepper to taste

Salt to taste

2 Tablespoons flour

1 ½ quarts Low sodium chicken broth

Juice and zest of 1 lemon

2 teaspoons fresh dill (1 if you use dried)

3-  large Cucumbers

3-4 heaping tablespoons sour cream

Chef Ward Alper’s Preparation:

Note: No need to finely chop any of the vegetables in this recipe. They will all be blended smooth at the end.

Peel the cucumbers and using the tip of a teaspoon, remove all of the seeds from the cucumbers Chop roughly.

In a good sized soup pot sauté onion in olive oil or butter until soft but not brown. Add salt and pepper about one minute into the process.

Add garlic and flour. Cook for one minute or so. Slowly add the chicken broth stirring so as not to have lumps. Add the juice and zest of the lemon.

Add ½ of the cucumbers to the broth. Simmer for 15-20 minutes on low heat.  Remove from heat, let cool, and then add the remaining portions of the cucumbers, reserving some if you wish for garnish. Using an immersion blender, whip the soup until smooth.

Add the sour cream. Blend to combine.

Note: Quickest if you have an immersion blender stick, but it works in a processor. Just do it in small batches.

Let cool in the refrigerator overnight!

While your soup’s cooling why not turn up the heat with a touch of Old Hollywood glamour?

Spokesmodel, Author and Diabetes Advocate Doris Hobbs (‘Rich In Love’) beautifully captures the essence of Old Hollywood in this vintage ensemble.

“A type 1 diabetic since 2014, I follow the strength of my father who has been living with type 1 diabetes since the age of two. His determination to take control of the illness has shaped my mission,” says Doris.

Doris is living proof that living with type 1 diabetes doesn’t have dim your dazzle!

She adds, “We, as a society, have a tendency of suppressing our fears, as mastering those can be difficult and takes large amounts of will and courage to look in the mirror and say, “I will succeed; I can do this!”

You don’t need to be  a red carpet Old Hollywood bombshell to harness the power of black clothing because it matches everything! It’s great for mixing and matching, for layering or for helping your ‘Revenge’ red lips standout.

MAKE UP TIP: Grab a lipstick brush and your favorite shade of red to apply a gorgeous red lip, completing the Old Hollywood glam look. To clean up the edges and define your lips, dip a concealer brush into just a pinch of concealer and outline your lips, paying particular attention to the corners and the cupid’s bow for extra crisp definition.

The key to achieving a classic, glamorous Old Hollywood look and style of entertaining lies in the details. We all know that the little details that make the ordinary become extraordinary can be daunting! But the first detail to achieving the glamorous life of your favorite Old Hollywood actress, Loretta Young, Grace Kelly or Norma Shear is focusing on you and your diabetes health!

Prioritize means “to put in order of importance”.  And as a busy mom, grandmother and/or daughter with diabetes you must continually do this over and over again, making choices based on the priorities you have built.   If you aren’t clear on your priorities I believe you will continually run into trouble trying to balance everything. Do you know what your priorities are for yourself and your diabetes health? Are you living your daily life with those in mind? I think a great way to get an handle on what those priorities are is to take a walk outside alone without your iPhone. Take a minute to smell the Spring flowers and when you get back from your walk, sit down and make a list.

Susan Weiner MS, RDN, CDE, CDN, co-author of  ‘The Complete Diabetes Organizer: Your Guide to A Less Stressful and Manageable Life’ offers this advice to help you in the kitchen to organize your diabetes life!

“ If you’re not organized, you can’t find what you need to cook anything, says Susan. “A for meal preparation. That means instead of stuffing certain items in your cupboard or fridge just because you found a space where it fits, organize by use instead. Group similar items together and keep healthy snacks in plain view.”

Do you have a few empty make-up bags from a give-away or promotion?

Susan suggests “to stay organized, use a medium-size makeup bag for blood glucose-checking supplies and a different one for fast-acting sources of carbs, such as glucose tablets. Keep your supplies close to you in style!”

Speaking of giveaways,  pampering gifts like products from PEAK 10 SKIN® are always a great treat to any Mom…at any age!  Whether it’s your daughter, sister, daughter-in-law, wife or your Mother, women love things that make them feel pampered and special.  PEAK 10 SKIN® have a couple different gift sets that we put together with Mom’s in mind, but they will also custom design a gift for the Mom’s in your life.  For custom gifts, simply call or email us.  Beautiful gift wrap available , too!  Remember, all of  products are professional spa quality and are paraben FREE, gluten FREE, cruelty FREE!

PEAK 10 SKIN®  is offering this Special 30% Discount Offer to our Divabetic community (use the Divabetic coupon code:   divabetic (all lowercase))

 

Don’t forget to use your coupon code:  B2B  (40% off)

PEAK 10 SKIN® recently repackaged the new SOOTHE hand cream in a pot for ease of use.  The product was too thick to come out of the tube with ease.  It comes in 2 sizes; 2oz/$18  and 4oz/$28.  These could be perfect gifts as well.  These prices are BEFORE your discount is applied.

Making a Mani/Pedi kit of SAVE MY SOLE & SOOTHE hand cream would be fabulous!  If you get the 2oz of each, that would be a $36 retail/$21.60 for you! 

 

Author Tonya Kappes’ New ‘Scene of the Grind’ Mystery

I’m thrilled to announce that USA TODAY bestselling author, Tonya Kappes will be joining us again for this year’s Diabetes Mystery, “Gypsies, Tramps & Peas” which debuts in September.

I encourage you to check out Tonya’s just released a fabulous new mystery, ‘Scene of the Grind’ from her new ‘A Killer Coffee Mystery’ Series. It’s a fun read filled with quirky characters, colorful scenery and a funny storyline,  just like our upcoming Diabetes Mystery podcast!

“Gypsies, Tramps & Peas” takes place at the colorful 35th Annual Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, New York. My character, Mr. Divabetic finds himself involved in another murder investigation when his former high school swim coach mysteriously disappears. On the way to cracking the case, while stumbling upon clues his team of amateur sleuths reveal helpful Summertime diabetes self-care management tips. 

My chance meeting with Tonya at BookCon in New York City four years ago inspired me to write and produce our first annual Diabetes Mystery podcast. Four years later, thanks to her bubbly personality, never-ending encouragement and enthusiasm throughout the writing process, we’re still going strong. I will always be incredibly indebted to Tonya for believing in me both personally and professionally. Somehow she ‘magically’ manages to squeeze time into her busy writing and book tour schedule to hold my hand through countless script rewrites.

I don’t think I could have ever risen to this challenge without her help!

Our annual diabetes murder mystery podcast has brought me so much personal joy that it’s my absolute pleasure to promote Tonya’s latest book, “Scene of the Grind” from her new ‘A Killer Coffee Mystery’ Series.

The series takes place in the cozy southern fictional tourist town of Honey Springs, Kentucky.

Roxanne Bloom (her friends, though few call her Roxie) quit her job as a lawyer, divorced her cheating husband, and moved to the quaint town of Honey Springs, Kentucky where she’d spent many of her teenage summers visiting her eccentric and fun-loving Aunt Maxi.

Roxy follows her dream and opens The Bean Hive, Honey Springs first coffee house on the town’s newly revitalized boardwalk. that opens just in time for Honey Springs annual Honey Festival.

Roxy’s life couldn’t be better. Business was booming, she’s reconnected with special people from her past, including her first teenage love, and visits The Crooked Cat book store, which is still her favorite shop in Honey Springs.

One problem, Aunt Maxi and Alexis Roarke, owner of Crooked Cat, aren’t on the best of terms. Alexis leases the book store’s building from Aunt Maxi and the rent is going up.

Roxy takes Alexis a fresh cup of coffee from The Bean Hive and a tasty pastry as a peace offering between the two women, but discovers the beloved book store owner murdered and Aunt Maxi is the number one suspect.

Gossip in Honey Springs is as hot at the coffee served at the Bean Hive and Roxy has to uncover who is behind the murder not only to save her shop, her aunt, but her life.

LISTEN NOW: ‘Phantom of the Okra’ Diabetes Mystery podcast with Tonya Kappes, Mama Rose Marie, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Chef Robert Lewis, Asha Brown and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach. This podcast features music from the ‘Phantom of the Opera’ soundtrack courtesy of SONY Music.

Beauty & The Beast

A beauty named Belle, says the story,

Was a lovely and humble young lass,

She was regal in all of her glory,

But she had diabetes, alas.

She thought diabetes was just a big beast,

And that it was going to get her.

But with education her courage increased,

And she knew she was going to get better.

READ: ‘Beauty & The Beast’ by Lorraine Brooks in its entirety here

Love to Me

can I return my love to me

with stems of flowers by the sea

or maybe with a beating heart

that says our paths must never part…

i think my love can never say

the feelings I felt yesterday

and so I focus here and now

and try to love me anyhow.

My hair my eyes my brows my cheeks

the pound I lost, that took me weeks …

Read ‘LOVE TO ME’ in its entirety here

Love to Me by Poet Lorraine Brooks

I requested that Poet Lorraine Brooks tackle the topic of ‘self love’ in her poetry on On February’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

What if, when you make your list of valentines, you include yourself this time? Showing yourself and your diabetes health some love could be your sweetest decision yet….

If we don’t take the time to honor and appreciate ourselves, how can we expect that others will?

With this inspiration, we hope that you feel the love from everyone around you, including yourself – maybe not just today, but year round! Happy Valentine’s day!

Love to Me by Poet Lorraine Brooks

can I return my love to me

with stems of flowers by the sea

or maybe with a beating heart

that says our paths must never part…

i think my love can never say

the feelings I felt yesterday

and so I focus here and now

and try to love me anyhow.

My hair my eyes my brows my cheeks

the pound I lost, that took me weeks

my nose my mouth my chin and neck

my weight that I must keep in check.

impatience at the world I see

and people who look down at me

I love myself in spite of that

in spite of what I’m looking at.

I compliment my mirrored face

the age that fills my eyes with grace

the lines have formed around my smile

I’ve loved them now for, quite a while.

my body is another story

but still I love it in its glory

that’s a little harder task

acceptance there is all I ask.

i love myself enough to do

the things that help me follow through.

I tell myself I’m good enough

In fact, I think I’m quite hot stuff.

I’m happy I can look at me

And satisfied with what I see.

So please make friends with what you’ve got

Don’t make yourself an afterthought.

Be kind, be loving, and embrace

Your body, thoughts, and lovely face.

Hear Poet Lorraine Brooks read ‘Love to Me’ on-air during February’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music by George Michael.

LISTEN NOW: Diabetes Late Nite inspired by George Michael podcast featuring Chef Ward Alper aka ‘The Decadent Diabetic’, ‘Rich In Love’ fashion blogger Doris Hobbs, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Poet Lorraine Brooks and Laura Laria.

February’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast is part of #DPodcastWeek in support of the “Spare a Rose, Save a Child” campaign. “Spare a Rose, Save a Child” encourages people to buy one less rose this Valentine’s Day and donate the value of that flower to children with diabetes. Donations go to Life for a Child, an International Diabetes Federation program which provides life-saving diabetes supplies, medication, and education that children in developing countries need to stay alive. (Artwork pictured by Lorraine Brooks)

Don’t Look Back

Another year of life and love

And many things to be proud of.

Surviving all the ups and downs

The strength to smile, instead of frown.

Many people we lost last year,

And still we strive to be of good cheer.

Forward looking, into the sun,

Thankful for things done and undone.

Ever increasing our knowledge and worth

Enjoying all of our time here on earth.

Read “Don’t Look Back” in its entirety HERE

Love Your Diabetes Health with a Divabetic’s Valentine’s Day Celebration

divVAlen.001

This year we’re encouraging you to ‘sparkle’ not just survive the holidays if you’re living with diabetes. From feeling deprived about what you can eat to feeling embarrassed about living a sexual health related complication, diabetes can make it difficult at times to get in the spirit!

Coming soon our favorite experts, Stacey Harris aka the Diabetic Pastry Chef, ‘The Decadent Diabetic‘ aka Chef Ward Alper, Wine & Spirits Expert Samantha Shaken Baker, Certified Diabetes Educators, Patrica Addie-Gentle RN, CDE and Janis Roszler, LMFT, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND and Rich In Love Fashion style Blogger, Published Writer, Diabetes Advocate, and Spokesmodel, Doris Hobbs share their advice on loving the holiday without compromising your diabetes health.

Look for our Diabetic Valentine’s Day Celebration’s diabetes self-care advice, healthy and delicious recipes, beauty and fashion tips and favorite love songs on this blog and our upcoming February Diabetes Late Nite podcast inspired by George Michael on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, 6-7 PM, EST. 

unnamed-2

Did you know that Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages, though written Valentine’s didn’t begin to appear until after 1400?

The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. (The greeting is now part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England.) Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.

Did you know that Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s?

In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began selling the first mass-produced valentines in America. Howland, known as the “Mother of the Valentine,” made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as “scrap.” Today, according to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year!

George Michael.001

TUNE IN: February’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast featuring music by George Michael on Tuesday, February 7, 2017, 6-7 PM, ESt. Guests include Chef Ward Alper aka ‘The Decadent Diabetic’, Rich In Love style blogger Doris Hobbs, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks. Hosted by Mr. Divabetic.

‘Don’t Look Back’ by Poet Lorraine Brooks

DONT.001

Another year means a new beginning for all of us. This is a perfect time to dream big and to become a better person than you were before. Divabetic’s  aim is to encourage you to ‘sparkle’ not just survive with diabetes in 2017.  Whether you’re confused about nutritional labels, outraged over health costs, stuck in a fashion rut, discouraged by your food choices and/or at a loss for words, we’re sharing expert advice to empower you to have a ‘New Attitude’ about living well with diabetes.

Poet Lorraine Brooks shares her words of inspiration in her newest poem, ‘Don’t Look Back’:

Another year of life and love

And many things to be proud of.

Surviving all the ups and downs

The strength to smile, instead of frown.

Many people we lost last year,

And still we strive to be of good cheer.

Forward looking, into the sun,

Thankful for things done and undone.

Ever increasing our knowledge and worth

Enjoying all of our time here on earth.

We strive to be honest, courageous, and bold,

Regardless of age, trying not to act “old”.

Accepting the world with its troubles and woes,

And being OK with your friends and your foes.

What have we, then, at the end of the year,

When the clock is ticking, and midnight is near…

When we look into the eyes of our lovers

And look back at everything we’ve discovered

And understand all, of the things we have lost

And celebrate all of the bridges we crossed

And drink a big toast to the ones who passed on

Who we still love and cherish although they are gone

While the seconds are counting down to a few

And we take a deep breath to start anew

And the crystal ball moves down its silvery spike

And we wish for all of the things we would like

When its only 10 seconds left in ’16

And our hearts begin pounding while watching the screen

And there they are playing Auld Lang Syne

And we lift our glasses and toast with some wine…

What we have is stillness deep in our heart

And a new dedication to make a new start

To open new chapters and write a new book

And follow new avenues over the brook

Inventing new attitudes, trying new thoughts

Forgetting all yesterdays and what they have wrought…

Here’s to tomorrow

Cheers to the dawn

New times are coming

Time to move on.

Good lives I wish you

And also for me.

And toasting to everything…

Effortlessly.

unnamed-13

Divabetic wants to inspire you sparkle not just survive with diabetes in 2017. We’re asking our favorite experts in beauty/fashion, food and diabetes self-care to share advice on how to celebrate the holidays without compromising your diabetes health. Chef Ward Alper, The Decadent Diabetic share his healthy and delicious recipes for the perfect Divabetic New Year’s Day Brunch to help you kick off a New Year with a New Attitude! READ: http://divabetic.org/2016/12/29/the-perfect-bubbles-buffet-blouse-for-a-divabetic-new-years-day-brunch/

womhe.003

LISTEN: Laugh a little, Learn a lot! Enjoy an exciting mix of diabetes education, poetry, games, prizes and music by today’s hottest artists courtesy of SONY Music on Diabetes Late Nite. Divabetic’s free monthly podcasts are available for free on demand anytime, anywhere on i-Tunes, Divabetic.org and blogtalkradio.com.

womhe.002

LISTEN: Mr. Divabetic Show on Women’s Health Issues in 2017. From reproductive rights to Medicare coverage, there could be a lot of policy changes impacting US women over the next four years. Additionally, many women may feel threatened from hearing about a powerful leader’s many sexual assault accusations and the rising incidents of hate crimes post-election.  Guests include: Dr. Andrea Chisholm OBGYN, Peak 10 Skincare founder and Domestic Violence Advocate Connie Elder, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Mary Ann Hodorowicz RD, CDE, Asha Brown, and the President of Women in Government Relations, Kathryn Schubert.

 

The Perfect Dress, Dishes & Drink for A Divabetic New Year’s Eve Party for 2

Ring in the New Year in a sexy, stylish and healthy way with some help from Divabetic.

We know many people in our Divabetic community don’t like to celebrate the holidays because they feel they may disrupt their diabetes care. But with a little pre-planning and guidance from your healthcare entourage you can still enjoy the festivities without failing your diabetes.

According to Tom Volkar from Core U Coaching, celebration helps us stay in the present where our power is. By celebrating the completion of every small step, we leverage the powerful energies of gratitude and momentum. Thomas Edison taught us that even each mistake along the way is cause for celebration. Life is all about the journey, and that means that every step, as well as reaching our destination, is part of our journey. Celebrating at every juncture is recognition of a life well lived and well worked.

Don’t let diabetes dim your dazzle!

We asked four of our of our favorite experts, Cahterine Schuller AICI, CIP, Cookbook Author, Holly Clegg, Wine & Spirits Expert Samantha Shaken Baker and Susan Weiner MS, RD, CDE, CDN to share advice on how you can celebrate an intimate Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2 in style without compromising your diabetes health.

image003Let’s start with what to wear at our fabulous “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2”. When it comes to dressing for the occasion there’s no better sytle icon to turn to than our vey own Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller. Catherine is one of the plus size industry’s pioneers, Former Ford model, consumer advocate image consultant, author, and the creator of ‘Runway the Real Way’ fashion brunches in New York City.

Catherine’s top pick for a dress to wrap up the holiday season is the wrap dress!

This style is flattering on every figure type because it hides a tummy, cinches in a waist, covers a jiggly upper arm, emphasizes decolletage (cleavage). Plus a wrap dress won’t break your bank. It can be worn with different styles of pumps, tights and boots and lots of jewelry in either stones, or silver or gold so you don’t have to spend more money on purchasing new accessories. If your someone special wants to take you out on the town after your “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” dinner, then grab a shoulder duster, a big bangle, and a great clutch and/or fabulous evening bag. “The possibilities are limitless and this is a dress that will serve you well for all those special occasions throughout the year!,” says Catherine.

nail-art-3141-768x768

BLING IN THE NEW YEAR: Why not pamper yourself to a safe manicure before your the big night? Professional pedicures can help your nails look their best, but too often poor sanitation practices, shared tools, and the work of overzealous nail technicians can result in skin injuries or infections Why not invest in your own nail kit and bring it with you?  Though it’s unlikely that you will get an infection from shared nail polish, play it safe and bring your own. Our top nail polish pick for a ‘Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2’is blue glitter nails with a festive blue (a nod to World Diabetes Day) polish. This nail art is great for short nails that want to sparkle on New Year’s Eve!

DIVABETIC TIP: Make your diabetes health dazzle and  match your nails to your blood glucose monitor!

lifescan-onetouch-ultramini-blood-glucose-monitoring-system-3The OneTouch® UltraMini® Blood Glucose Monitoring System is sleek, compact glucose meter easily fits into your purse or pocket for added convenience so it won’t cramp your style! Offers alternate site testing on your finger or forearm with a 1-microliter blood sample and quick results in five seconds on a large, easy-to-read display. Stores 500 blood sugar test results, which can be downloaded to your computer. Available in several fun colors including pink glow, silver moon, limelight and jet black

DIVABETIC TIP: Don’t focus on what you shouldn’t eat but rather on what you can eat!

Next up on our list for celebrating a “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” is ‘the dish.’

With over 1 million cookbooks sold, Holly Clegg has become a culinary expert on easy, healthy and practical recipes through her nationally recognized best-selling trim&TERRIFIC® and her more health focused Eating Well cookbook series, including newly released 15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY edition of Eating Well Through Cancer, (English, Spanish and Chinese editions), Eating Well to Fight Arthritis and Diabetic Cooking with the American Diabetes Association.  Clegg who attended the Cordon Bleu Cooking School has appeared on Fox & Friends, NBC Weekend Today, QVC, The 700 Club, USA Today, Cooking Light Magazine, Web MD, and Huff Post.  She has consulted for Walmart, Teflon, The Coca-Cola Company, and hospitals throughout the country. Here’s Holly’s suggestion on to make a simple, impressive menu for someone special on New Year’s Eve:

unnamed-6

Our dazzling “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” menu starts with Potato Soup
This snazzy soup starts with hash browns, so no time-consuming potato peeling; almost faster than opening a can. I top with cheese and green onions.

Makes 2 (1-cup) servings

2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, partially thawed
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can fat-free chicken or vegetable broth
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/3 cup skim milk

1. In medium nonstick pot, heat hash browns, broth, and onion to a boil, reduce heat, and cook, covered, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In small bowl, whisk together flour with milk. Add to potato mixture and bring to boil. Reduce heat, and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until thickened. For thinner soup, add more milk.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 215 Calories from fat 0% Fat 1g Saturated Fat 0g Cholesterol 1mg Sodium 390mg Carbohydrate 46g Dietary Fiber 4g Sugars 3g Protein 8g Dietary Exchanges: 3 starch

unnamed-5

Next, serve a delicious Kale Salad with Fruity Vinaigrette
You must give kale a try, this intriguing salad with an extraordinary tasty flavor combination. You will love the Fruity Vinaigrette for it’s perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Did you know that 1 cup of kale provides a whopping 5 grams of fiber, 15% of your daily calcium recommended intake, 180% of vitamin A, and 200% of vitamin C!

Makes 8 servings

8 cups chopped kale, center ribs and stems removed
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 apple, nectarine or fruit of choice, chopped
1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Fruity Vinaigrette (recipe follows)

1. In large salad, toss together kale, cabbage, fruit and pecans. Toss with Fruity Vinaigrette (see recipe).

Fruity Vinaigrette

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup apricot preserves
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1. In bowl, whisk together all ingredients.

Nutrition information per serving: Calories 145 kcal, Calories from Fat 52%, Fat 9 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 44 mg, Carbohydrates 16 g, Dietary Fiber 2 g, Total Sugars 7 g, Protein 3 g, Dietary Exchanges: 1/2 fruit, 2 vegetable, 2 fat

unnamed-4

Our entrée for “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” is an Easy Roasted Salmon
Love salmon or never cooked it? You must try this incredible recipe—season salmon, pop in the oven and you have a terrific meal ready in minutes.

Makes 2 servings

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1. Preheat oven 400° F. Line baking sheet with foil.
2. In resalable plastic bag, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, and season to taste. Add salmon, coating all over and pat in seasoning.
3. Transfer to prepared pan. Bake 12-15 minutes or until fish flakes easily.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 252 Calories from fat 25% Fat 7g Saturated Fat 1g Cholesterol 97mg Sodium 153mg Carbohydrate 9g Dietary Fiber 1g Protein 37g Dietary Exchanges: 1/2 other carbohydrate, 1/2 lean meat

unnamed-3

Serve your entrée with Roasted Garlic Broccoli
By the time the broccoli is done, your dinner will be ready. Roasting broccoli is a simple way to intensify the natural flavor. Sometimes I toss in artichokes or some extra veggies I have hanging around.

Makes 2 servings

4 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven 450°F. Line baking sheet with foil.
2. Toss broccoli with olive oil and garlic on prepared pan. Roast 20 minutes, stirring after 10 minutes. Remove from oven season to taste.

Spicy Advice: Roasting is cooking at a high temperature that browns, caramelizes and crisps.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 104, Calories from fat 56%, Fat 7 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 39 mg, Carbohydrate 8 g, Dietary Fiber 4 g, Sugars 2 g, Protein 4 g
Dietary Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 1/2 fat

unnamed-2

A finally, indulge in dessert with Holly Clegg’s Berry Parfait (I would cut in fourths so you have extra the next day) and make four)
Light and delightful, strawberries or your favorite berries layered with a luscious cream cheese layer and ladyfingers.

Makes 16 (1/2-cup) servings

2/3 cup seedless sugar-free raspberry preserves
1/4 cup orange juice
6 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8-ounce) container fat-free whipped topping, thawed, divided
2 (3-ounce) packages ladyfingers, split in half (24)
1 1/2 cups strawberries, stemmed and sliced

1. In small bowl, mix together preserves and orange juice.
2. In mixing bowl, cream together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until light. Mix in whipped topping reserving, 1/2 cup for topping.
3. Line bottom of an oblong small dish with split ladyfingers. Layer with preserves mixture, cream cheese layer, and top with strawberries. Repeat layers with remaining ladyfingers, preserves and cream cheese layer.
4. Carefully top with thin layer of remaining whipped topping. Top with remaining strawberries. Cover, refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 128, Calories from fat (%) 24, Fat (g) 3, Saturated Fat (g) 1, Cholesterol (mg) 9, Sodium (mg) 79, Carbohydrate (g) 23, Dietary Fiber (g) 1, Sugars (g) 11, Protein (g) 2, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 1/2 carbohydrate, 1/2 fat

Tip: Use raspberries so you don’t have to even cut the strawberries. This recipe works well in individual servings.

Nutrition Nugget: You will hardly believe this luscious treat is diabetic-friendly so there is always room for dessert!

DIVABETIC TIP: While alcohol can make blood sugar drop too low, certain beverages (such as beer or sugary mixers) can cause a blood sugar spike. What’s more, consuming more than one or two drinks can cloud your thinking and affect other food choices you make that day, which can also affect glucose levels.

36945_thumbnail_2Since no “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” celebration is complete without a little bubbly we asked Samantha Shanken Baker, who helps presents memorable food and wine events like the Annual Harlem Eat Up! to suggest a great tasting champagne for under $50. Samantha’s pick is G.H. Mumm Brut Champagne Cordon (retail $45) featuring a delightful notes of flavor—dried apricot, candied orange peel, nut and smoke. This very harmonious dry Champagne is still elegant and light-weight. The rich, toasty note lingers on the vibrant finish. Oh la-la!

Susan Weiner MS RDN CDE CDN and 2015 AADE Diabetes Educator of the Year is an award-winning Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator and published author. Susan offers this advice to all our ‘Divabetics’ who enjoy a cocktail: Before New Year’s Eve, take a wine glass out of your cabinet. Take out a liquid measuring cup and pour in 5 ounces of water. Pour the water into the wine glass. That’s a serving of wine! Now you know what a serving of wine looks like and “when to say when” during your holiday gathering.

My pick for the perfect soundtrack to set the mood for a “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” is the Essential  Gladys Knight & The Pips album on SONY Music. This album is packed with slow jams ‘You’re Number One (In My Book)’, ‘Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me’ and ‘The Way We Were/Try To Remember’ and uptempo favorites including ‘I’ve Got To Use My Imagination’ and ‘Save The Overtime (For Me)’ along with the classic ‘Midnight Train To Georgia.’

imgres

Finally, don’t let diabetes kill romance at “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2”.  Bring the fireworks into the bedroom with a high-quality lubricant. Lubricants improve sex by making genital tissues moist, which decreases friction and makes intimate contact more pleasurable.  If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, which is common among women living with diabetes, a lubricant can be very helpful.  A lubricant is often used with condoms to decrease irritation from latex, but can also be used on its own. Women who often have vaginal yeast infections may wish to avoid glycerin lubes, as the sugar can encourage yeast growth. Wet® Naturals™ Beautifully Bare™ is glycerin-free, paraben-free and enriched for your sensual well-being. This formula is both long lasting and luxurious and designed to enhance a woman’s natural moisture.

Live, love, laugh and learn. If you didn’t feel good about your diabetes management after celebrating your “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” then talk to your doctor about how to do things differently next time. The most important thing is to not let diabetes dim your dazzle!

Happy New Year!