Magzter Gold (Sitewide Promotion)

Magzter Gold (Sitewide Promotion)

Digital Delivery

First for Women January 3rd, 2022 Digital Back Issue Cover

First for Women January 3, 2022 (Digital)

(226)

Single Digital Issue

January 3, 2022

$3.99

Powered By Zinio

Zinio

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Instant Start

Subscribe Instead

1 Year Subscription

26 digital issues

$26.24

($1.01/issue)

Go to Subscription

View Subscription Options

Also available on ZINIO Unlimited logo

Get unlimited access to First for Women (Digital) + Back Issues & 5000+ other magazines

1-month free trial

Renews at $8.99/month after trial.
Cancel anytime.

Get unlimited access to First for Women (Digital) + Back Issues & 5000+ other magazines. Renews at just $8.99/month after trial. Cancel anytime.

Start Trial Learn more

53 Articles

7 things making us happy

Bliss in every bite Yuletide yum! “In my house, December is when the jellyroll pan comes out,” says Emily Boyette, FIRST Associate Food Editor. “And this Yule log cake is easy to make—and fun to decorate! I mix 1 box of angel food cake mix with instructed ingredients and bake in a parchment-lined jellyroll pan at 375°F for 20 minutes. Once cool, I spread 1 cup of caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with 2 Tbs. of cinnamon. Then I lift the parchment on the sides to gently roll into a log, discarding the paper and transferring the log to a plate. To finish, I coat the log with 2 cups of milk-chocolate frosting, make lines down the sides to mimic wood and top with sprinkles and berries. It always wins rave…

7 things making us happy

smart YOU solutions

Easily salvage a shrunken sweater Oops! You accidentally threw your favorite cotton sweater into the dryer, and now it’s tiny. The good news: Reviving it is simple. First, saturate the garment in cool water, then gently wring it and stretch it out on a towel until it’s your desired size. Next, weight each corner of the sweater with a heavy candle or canned good so it maintains its shape, and let air-dry. Cotton fibers will reshape as they dry, returning your top to its original glory! QUICK POLL How do you see better in the dark? Winter’s dark nights can make driving difficult, especially since 70% of us struggle with night vision. Here, how FIRST readers stay safer on the road 51% ♥ this idea! Don sunglasses for 20 minutes before driving to speed the eyes’…

smart YOU solutions

Blazer Avoid bold buttons ✓ Whittles the middle Buttoning a velvet blazer should help cinch the waist, but contrasting buttons that stand out end up magnifying the area instead. The fix: A blazer worn open with same-toned buttons keeps focus moving vertically so the belly and body appear slimmer overall. ✗ Adds 10 pounds A dress made of the already-bulky fabric combined with shape-erasing billowy pleats and an uneven leg-thickening hem, causes the figure to look heftier. Dress Opt for a simple style ✓ Carves out curves The simplified design of a structured pencil dress not only skims seamlessly over any trouble spots, but the figure-flattering fit also spotlights the body’s beautiful feminine shape. Pants Pick fit-and-flare ✓ Shrinks legs A pair of velvet trousers with wide legs through-out visually widens the lower half for a stocky appearance. But pants that “cling” to…

Voluminous styles that wow

Long hair? The height of a pompadour-infused half-up ’do creates the illusion of a fuller head of hair. Plus, it offsets the volume-sapping nature of longer locks as they cascade beautifully down the back. To do: Back-comb hair at the crown; then, leaving a 1" tendril on each side, gather a 3" section of hair from above each ear on each side and twist them together loosely in back; secure with pins. Medium length? A plump ponytail adds pizzazz to limp shoulder-length hair while adding 360 degrees of volume. To do: Curl hair, then tease at the roots in 1" sections. Secure hair into a loose pony at the back of the crown. Gently tug on small sections on top to add gorgeous oomph. Short hair? Sweeping a crop up, back and over props hair off the…

Voluminous styles that wow

You, holiday beautiful!

The invitations are rolling in, and we can’t wait to celebrate with friends, family and co-workers. But finding the perfect outfit for one, let alone many, gatherings can be daunting and pricey! Dazzling for HOSTING A HOLIDAY DINNER Start with your own sweaterdress… The cozy knitwear not only allows you to move around with ease when entertaining guests in your home, it’s like a blank slate, making it so easy to dress up, says stylist Amanda Sanders, who’s worked with Marilu Henner and Rosie Perez. “Plus, no matter what color your dress is, the fitted design hugs curves, and the material’s ribbed, vertical lines visually elongate and slim the body all over.” Update it with gilded ornaments Wearing gold accessories from head to toe creates pretty pizzazz that instantly transforms a more casual sheath into…

You, holiday beautiful!

Look gorgeous in seconds!

Stickers that make acne disappear Verified Amazon reviewers can be relied upon to tell it like it is, and they’re raving about Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original (Amazon.com). The reason? These “stickers,” made of absorbent plant-based material hydrocolloid, flatten pimples, mask inflammation and draw out the bacteria, dirt and oil that causes acne in a pinch. One reviewer called them the best product ever and also said, “They blend in with skin, making them unnoticeable…I would even wear these in public if needed.” Green ‘beads’ that erase redness After 6 million TikTok viewers saw L’Oréal Paris Magic Skin Beautifier Color Correcting BB Cream Anti-Redness (Target.com) in action, the cream sold out nationwide. What sets this BB cream apart: It’s made with green encapsulated beads that instantly neutralize redness (since red and green are…

Look gorgeous in seconds!

100% healthy all winter long

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT RAW HONEY? + Powers immunity Raw honey contains a powerful enzyme (glucose oxidase) that kills 100% of bacteria on contact, per research in the journal World Wide Wounds. The effect is so powerful that stirring the sweet treat into warmers can prevent viruses from spreading. Bonus: Honey soothes a sore throat in just 3 minutes. + Deepens sleep A honeyed sip can improve sleep quality by as much as 62%, thanks to enzymes and natural hydrogen peroxide that soothe the stomach to ward off rest-disrupting heartburn. What’s more, a good night’s sleep makes your immune system 44% stronger. + Soothes the stomach Australian researchers say adding 1 tsp. of honey to meals will cut recovery time in half if your bowels are loose. Thanks goes to honey’s rich stores of anti-inflammatory enzymes,…

100% healthy all winter long

Heart-health diet yields 87% fewer migraines Researchers reporting in Nutritional Neuroscience uncovered another benefit of a heart-healthy diet: warding off migraines. Their study found that folks who followed the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Mediterranean diets, which emphasize produce, healthy fats and whole grains, had 87% fewer migraines and 59% less pain when they did have one. The researchers say these diets provide essential nutrients for brain cell function, while less healthful diets leave nutritional gaps that can trigger migraine pain. Seasonings slash blood pressure Enjoying more flavorful spices in your meals can lower your blood pressure. That’s the word from Penn State University researchers, whose small study found that folks who added 6.6 grams of herbs and spices (about 21 ⁄ 2 tsp.) to their daily diet—and made no other…

6 delicious REVITALIZERS

Cranberries boost energizing beta brain waves A cranberry spritzer or spoonful of cranberry sauce livens up any holiday meal—and it can make you feel livelier too! Researchers at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut say the plant compounds (tannins) that give this berry its distinctive tart flavor stimulate your brain’s limbic system to prompt the release of focus-enhancing beta brain waves, often in just 1 minute from your first bite or sip. Chocolate enhances blood flow Dark chocolate brims with compounds (phenylethylamine and theobromine) that relax and open arteries, increasing oxygen-rich blood flow to your brain and heart within 2 minutes of the first taste. That’s the word from University of Pittsburgh researchers, who found that savoring 2 oz. of dark chocolate (or 16 oz. of hot cocoa) increases alertness and energy by…

6 delicious REVITALIZERS

Can nutrients stop my hot flashes? Q: I love the holiday season, but this year, severe hot flashes are putting a damper on my excitement. I’m terrified I’ll break out in a sweat in the middle of a party. Help! A: You’re definitely not alone! Declining estrogen throws off the internal thermostat of 75% of menopausal women. So when the brain detects tiny changes in body temperature as too hot, it triggers a flash of sweat to release heat. Our fix: Sip two cups of sage tea daily. Research in Advances in Therapy suggests the slightly peppery brew slashes severe hot flashes by 79% and totally eliminates the worst flushing—that’s as good as low-dose estrogen treatments. The scientists say sage’s estrogen-like compounds balance hormonal shifts responsible for flushing. Also smart: Tuck a tin…

Speed-heal your metabolism

Drop 3 belly inches every week! As master multitaskers, we’re all about the genius quick fix: We know how to save an oversalted stew, repurpose wrapping for a last-minute gift or fix a droopy skirt hem. If only losing weight were so easy! What’s stumping us? Turns out, we simply don’t process food the way we used to when we were younger, a glitch that burdens us with low energy, digestive woes, blood-sugar problems and pounds that seem impossible to shed. Researchers estimate that nearly all women over the age of 45 struggle with a damaged metabolism. In fact, 100 million Americans have “metabolic syndrome,” a cluster of symptoms including high cholesterol, high blood sugar and excess belly fat that develops when our metabolism can’t keep up with the blood sugar–spiking foods…

Speed-heal your metabolism

’Tis-the-season stress–gone!

HALTS HEADACHES: A cozy sweater Holiday hubbub doubles the risk of painful headache flares. A cozy Rx: Don a sweater indoors or a coat and a scarf when you head out, even when you’re just grabbing the mail. University of Texas researchers say keeping the muscles that attach to your spine (the shoulders and back) warm and relaxed prevents pain-triggering spasms, instantly cutting the risk of fun-sapping headaches by 40%. DEEPENS SLEEP: ‘Silent Night’ Before you switch off the light, turn on your favorite Christmas carols. Researchers reporting in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society looked at five randomized, controlled sleep studies and found that volunteers who listened to soft, soothing music before bed (think “Silent Night” or “O Little Town of Bethlehem”) drifted off easier and slept 235% more soundly. The…

’Tis-the-season stress–gone!

Help for a slow-healing injury Q: My doctor diagnosed me with a partially torn rotator cuff after I injured myself playing tennis a few months ago. She showed me stretches, but they don’t seem to be helping. What else can I do? A: The tendons in our shoulders become weaker as we age, and repetitive movements, like those involved in playing tennis, can make the muscles in the area more prone to injury. And while a partially torn rotator cuff will heal itself over time, I can suggest additional strategies to help reduce your pain and heal faster. First, try increasing your intake of omega-3–rich foods, like nuts, seeds and fish. Researchers reporting in the Global Journal of Health Science found that doing so can lower inflammation enough to reduce pain by up…

“My energy began to soar!”

“As I finished my shopping at the grocery store one morning, I noticed a group of my close friends talking outside. I avoided them as best I could,” recalls Katie. “I didn’t want to be rude, but I was exhausted—again. All I wanted to do was go home and go to sleep. Once there, I didn’t even have the energy to put the groceries away, so I got the cold stuff into the fridge and freezer, then lay down. It was only 9:30 am, and I felt guilty realizing I had blown off some of my best friends because I wanted to rest. Tired all the time “This wasn’t the first time it had happened either. Fatigue was starting to rule my life—my husband agreed, telling me he didn’t think it wasn’t…

“My energy began to soar!”

News! Small tweaks that prevent headaches

As you rush to complete holiday to-do’s, your head feels like a tea kettle, building up painful pressure. “Everything about the holidays sets us up for headaches, from increased travel to changes in what we eat and drink,” says Dawn Buse, Ph.D., clinical professor of neurology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City. In fact, more than any single trigger, change itself may be the biggest headache catalyst. Recent Harvard research on migraine sufferers found that changes they call “surprisals”—such as more or less sleep, more or less stress—increased headache risk. What’s most surprising about the study, says Buse, is that shifts in either direction can throw off the nervous system, triggering pain. The great news is that outsmarting any type of headache is easier than ever.…

News! Small tweaks that prevent headaches

“House walking saved my life!”

This isn’t how I imagined my retirement, Gayle Nichols sighed sadly, leaving the hospital after having a mini stroke in March 2019—her second in six months. The Phoenix music teacher, who was also in a band, had planned on spending her days giving music lessons part-time and performing. Instead, she had become a heart patient, on multiple medications, and spent her time going to frequent doctor appointments. I want my life back, she despaired. A scary diagnosis “My heart issues started 15 years ago, when I was in my early 50s,” says Gayle. “I suddenly started experiencing palpitations and was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that can lead to blood clots. I was put on 25 mg. daily of metoprolol, a drug to regulate my…

“House walking saved my life!”

HOW WALKING BOLSTERS HEART HEALTH

Walking lowers blood pressure, reduces the risk of atrial fibrillation and improves overall health, says cardiologist Nieca Goldberg, M.D., medical director at Atria New York City and a clinical associate professor at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine. “Gentle exercise relaxes blood vessels and lowers the pressure needed for the heart to deliver blood.” Research in the journal Hypertension found that just four weeks of aerobic exercise like walking lowers systolic blood pressure (the top number) by seven points and diastolic (the bottom number) pressure by five. It also reduces the risk of more serious heart episodes, such as an irregular heart rhythm like A-fib that could lead to stroke. “Walking is healthy anywhere you do it—outdoors, on a treadmill or around your home,” adds Dr. Goldberg. Plus, strolling indoors…

Proof: Cuddling a dog reduces stress by 166% You already know your dog tames tension, and now science proves just how much. Canadian researchers compared moderately stressed volunteers who pet or cuddled a therapy dog with folks who had no physical contact with a dog. Based on self-reported ratings of stress, loneliness and general wellness, those who hugged a dog reported a 166% greater reduction in anxiety. The study author explains that the ability to approach and touch a dog signals to the brain that you are in a safe environment, triggering calm. Texting helps safeguard the brain Texting a pal is just as good for brain health as calling. So say Penn State scientists, who assessed hundreds of adults between ages 70 and 90 and found that those who texted performed just…

Jane’s secrets to holiday joy

Beloved Bond girl, Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman and CBS’s B Positive star Jane Seymour is many things, from an artist and philanthropist to a mom and grandmother. But this time of year, the stress of juggling all those roles takes a back seat to the reason for the season: love. “I focus on the people I love, and I try to make everything else as easy as possible,” Jane shares with FIRST. After returning from filming Acorn TV’s Harry Wild in Ireland for five months, Jane says this year she’s doubling down on her goal to have a relaxing, blissful holiday. Her secret: being present in each moment. “My mother survived being in a WWII concentration camp, and she learned that truly living in the now is the key to happiness.…

Jane’s secrets to holiday joy

Found: The secret to a deeper connection Whether you’re talking to a friend or a stranger, instead of broaching topics like, “What TV shows are you watching?” try asking things like, “If you could see into the future, what would you want to know?” Small talk may feel less awkward, but deeper questions strengthen connections, say University of Chicago researchers. The scientists found that subjects underestimated how interested others were in hearing their true thoughts and overestimated how difficult it would be to discuss more meaningful subjects—and say that deeper conversation fostered closer friendships. The trick to successful negotiating Bidding for a car, condo or even a piece of used furniture can be tricky: Do you lowball your first offer or bid so high you know you won’t be turned down? Scientists at…

Transform ‘time tension’ into joy!

Between chasing last-minute chores and hustling to get a work project done before the holiday, you feel like time is always running out. And the pressure to find more of this precious yet elusive commodity is making you so anxious, you can’t fully stay in the moment to enjoy the downtime you do have. You’re not alone: A staggering 80% of Americans feel “time poor,” reveals Ashley Whillans, Ph.D., author of Time Smart: How to Reclaim Your Time & Live a Happier Life. “Worrying that you don’t have enough time has an incredibly strong negative effect on happiness, comparable even to the stress of being unemployed,” she explains. “This tension can easily spiral into depression and burnout.” And while it’s easy to assume we have fewer hours for leisure these days, that’s…

Transform ‘time tension’ into joy!

Your worries… solved

First for women PACKED WITH LITTLE TIPS THAT MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE! Subscribe to save 62%* WHY MISS AN ISSUE? ✓ Yes! Send me 17 issues (1 year) for $21.97 Fill out this coupon and send to First for Women, P.O. Box 37173, Boone, IA 50037. For Canadian orders, add $18; for foreign orders, add $34 postage per year, prepaid in U.S. funds. Make check payable to “First.” Allow 6–8 weeks for delivery. *Savings based on comparison to newsstand price. **An additional $2 handling fee will be added to “bill me later” orders. Plus sales tax where applicable. SUBSCRIBE ONLINE at ffw-mag.com/sub…

Your worries… solved

Delectable glazed ham dinner

Sweet & Tangy Glazed Ham ACTIVE TIME: 20 min. TOTAL TIME: 2½ hrs. SERVES: 16 Mixing jarred marmalade and zesty mustard is the easy secret to creating the simple yet delicious glaze for our showy centerpiece ½ cup orange marmalade2 Tbs. honey Dijon mustard2 tsp. dried sage2 tsp. garlic powder2 tsp. balsamic vinegar1 (7–8 lb.) fully cooked smoked hamOrange slices, fresh sage leaves and fresh cranberries (optional) 1 Heat oven to 325°F. Coat roasting pan with cooking spray. In small bowl, combine marmalade, mustard, sage, garlic powder, balsamic vinegar and ¼ tsp. pepper; reserve¼ cup. Trim fat from ham to ¼"; place ham in pan, cut side down. 2 Brush ham all over with reserved ¼ cup glaze mixture. Roast until heated through, 2 hrs., 15 min., brushing with remaining glaze mixture during last 30…

Delectable glazed ham dinner

Fast & easy slow-cooker sips

Zesty Mulled Wine This one-pot wonder lets the ladle do the work. To make: Combine 2 (750 ml.) btles. dry red wine, 1 cup apple juice, ½ cup brandy, ½ cup honey, 10 cloves, 2 star anise, 4 cinnamon sticks and zest of 1 orange in 4-qt. slow cooker. Cover; heat on low 1 hr. Reduce heat to keep warm. Serve with orange slices. Serves 6 Spiced Chai Latte Whole spices infuse this warming cup with extra yum. To make: Roll 5 cinnamon sticks, 10 cloves and 5 star anise in cheesecloth. Tie with twine; add to 4-qt. slow cooker with 6 black tea bags, ⅓ cup honey and 10 cups oat milk; heat on low 4 hrs. Reduce heat to keep warm; remove spices and tea bags. Serve with whipped cream and…

Fast & easy slow-cooker sips

Fabulous roast beef feast

Roast Beef with Mushrooms and Tomatoes ACTIVE TIME: 20 min. TOTAL TIME: 1½ SERVES: 8 Packed with flavor from our tangy from-scratch glaze, this roast makes a mouthwatering centerpiece for your holiday celebration 2 Tbs. olive oil1 Tbs. Worcestershire sauce2 cloves garlic, minced3 lbs. beef eye round roast8 oz. cremini mushrooms, halved1 cup cherry tomatoes, halvedLemon slices and fresh thyme (optional) 1 Heat oven to 400°F. Coat roasting pan with cooking spray. Combine 1 Tbs. oil, Worcestershire sauce, half of garlic, ½ tsp. salt and ½ tsp. pepper; brush over beef. Roast until meat thermometer inserted in thickest part registers 125°F for medium-rare, 40–50 min., or to desired doneness. Let stand 10 min. before carving. 2 In nonstick skillet, heat remaining oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, ¼ tsp. salt and ¼ tsp. pepper; cook,…

Fabulous roast beef feast

Almost-instant festive bites

Jalapeño Popper Sticks These treats will spice things up; for less heat, use green chilies. To make: In bowl, mix ¼ cup chopped dill and 2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese; scoop and roll into 16 balls and freeze until firm. In bowl, mix 1 chopped, seeded jalapeño, 2 minced scallions, ½ cup bacon bits and ½ tsp. garlic powder. Roll balls in mixture; add pretzel sticks. Sausage Sesame Bites Serve these drizzled with warm honey for extra mmm. To make: Mix ½ lb. cooked, crumbled sausage, ¼ cup brown sugar and 2 Tbs. mustard. Cut 1 puff pastry sheet into thirds. Spread filling over; starting at long sides, roll into logs. Cut into 1" pieces. Brush with egg; top with 1 Tbs. sesame seeds. Bake at 375°F for 20 min. Cran-Ricotta Crostini For an…

Almost-instant festive bites

6-ingredient easy

Pasta Carbonara ACTIVE TIME: 15 min. TOTAL TIME: 25 min. SERVES: 4 3 eggs1 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese4 slices bacon, diced1 clove garlic, finely chopped8 oz. spaghetti1 cup frozen peasSliced chili pepper (optional) Per serving: Cal. 436 Pro. 25g Carb. 49g Fiber 4g Sug. 3g Chol. 164mg Sod. 606mg Total fat: 15g Sat. 6g Savor forkfuls of mmm in every bite with bits of crispy bacon and plenty of tangy Parmesan 1 In bowl, whisk eggs and ¾ cup cheese. In nonstick skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp, 7–8 min.; drain. Discard all but 1 tsp. drippings from skillet. Add garlic; over medium-low, cook 30 sec.; stir into egg mixture. 2 In pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions, adding peas during last 3 min. Reserve ½ cup cooking liquid;…

6-ingredient easy

Save precious time with these shopping lists

DELECTABLE GLAZED HAM DINNER Sweet & Tangy Glazed Ham 1 (12.75 oz.) jar orange marmalade 1 (12 oz.) btle. honey Dijon mustard 1 (1 oz.) cont. dried sage 1 (3.12 oz.) cont. garlic powder 1 (16 oz.) btle. balsamic vinegar 1 (7–8 lb.) smoked ham Balsamic Kale Salad 1 (16 oz.) btle. balsamic vinaigrette 1 (8 oz.) pkg. walnut pieces 1 (5 oz.) pkg. dried cranberries 1 (16 oz.) pkg. fresh kale greens 1 Gala apple 1 (4 oz.) cont. feta cheese crumbles Brown Sugar Mashed Sweet Potatoes 1 (16 oz.) pkg. dark brown sugar 2 lbs. sweet potatoes 1 bunch fresh thyme 1 (32 oz.) carton milk 1 (1 lb.) pkg. butter Peppermint Swirl Chocolate Layer Cake 1 (15.25 oz.) pkg. dark chocolate fudge cake mix 1 (12 oz.) pkg. mini chocolate chips 3 (16 oz.) pkgs. confectioners’ sugar 1 (2 oz.) btle. peppermint extract 1 (1 oz.) cont. red food coloring 1 (11.75 oz.) jar…

Save precious time with these shopping lists

Cheery delight in every bite

Brandied Ginger Fruitcake ACTIVE TIME: 45 min. TOTAL TIME: 8 hrs. + 3 weeks SERVES: 20 1 Tbs. + 1 cup butter, at room temp.2 apples, cored, diced1 cup dried cranberries2 cups brandy3 cups all-purpose flour¼ cup chopped candied ginger1 Tbs. ground ginger½ cups packed dark brown sugar5 eggs⅓ cup orange juice1 tsp. vanilla extract1½ cups chopped walnuts1½ cups confectioners’ sugar2½ Tbs. milk 1 Heat oven to 300°F. Coat 8"x3" springform pan with cooking spray. Line bottom of pan with parchment paper; coat with spray. Wrap outside with foil. In nonstick skillet, melt 1 Tbs. butter over medium heat. Add apples; cook, stirring, until soft, 7–8 min. Transfer to bowl; let cool slightly. Add cranberries, 1 cup brandy, ⅓ cup flour and candied ginger; toss to combine. Let stand 1 hr. In separate bowl,…

Cheery delight in every bite

Subscribe to Woman’s World and receive a risk-free trial issue!**

Woman’s World is packed with heartwarming stories, delicious recipes, easy home, health & beauty solutions and so much more to make this week—and every week—your best ever! Find Woman’s World on newsstands and in the supermarket checkout aisle—or subscribe now at a discounted rate of over 52% off the cover price! It’s like getting 26 issues free!* □ Yes! Send me 50 issues of Woman’s World for the low price of $59.60 □ Or send me 20 issues of Woman’s World for just $24.98 Please send me a risk-free issue of Woman’s World. If dissatisfied, I will write “cancel” on my invoice or write to: Woman’s World, P.O. Box 37177, Boone, IA 50037 within 45 days. Otherwise, I will receive the entire selected term of either 50 issues for $59.60 or 20 issues for $24.98 plus…

Subscribe to Woman’s World and receive a risk-free trial issue!**

Shortcut sensations

Phone-friendly: Snap and save or share! Eggnog Mini Bundts ACTIVE TIME: 20 min. TOTAL TIME: 1 hr.. SERVES: 24 1 (16 oz.) pkg. pound cake mix2 eggs⅔ cup eggnog¼ cup butter, at room temp.½ tsp. ground nutmeg¼ cups canned white frosting, warmed Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 24 mini-Bundt molds. On low speed, beat first 5 ingredients 30 sec.; on medium speed, beat 2 min. Divide evenly among molds. Bake until pick inserted into centers comes out clean, about 15 min. Let cool 5 min. Transfer from pans to rack; let cool completely. Spoon on frosting. Garnish as desired. Per serving: Cal. 161 Pro. 2g Carb. 26g Fiber 0g Sug. 17g Chol. 25mg Sod. 120mg Total fat: 6g Sat. 3g HEALTH BONUS Enhance focus with nutmeg. Compounds in the spice stimulate the concentration center of the brain…

Shortcut sensations

smart FOOD solutions

PRO SECRET Daphne Oz’s better-for-you brownies with 59% less fat For a fudgy treat with a healthy twist, Happy Cook author Daphne Oz turns black beans and sweet potatoes into brownie bites. To make: Puree 15 oz. of black beans and 1 cup of mashed sweet potato in a blender; add to a bowl. Stir in 2 Tbs. of melted butter, 2 eggs,1 ⁄2 cup of brown sugar, 1 tsp. of vanilla,3 ⁄4 cup of cocoa powder,1 ⁄2 tsp. of baking soda and 1 tsp. of salt. In a bowl, whisk1 ⁄2 cup of chocolate chips and1 ⁄3 cup of hot black coffee until melted; add to batter. Pour batter into greased mini-muffin tin; bake at 350°F for 10 minutes. Garnish. smart swap! + Fiber grams added: 2.4 - Cholesterol mg. cut: 23 - Fat grams…

smart FOOD solutions

Spark holiday joy with a cozy brunch!

Set the mood for smiles with a holiday-happy setting The key to creating a very merry scene that’s full of classic-meets-cozy charm: showcasing a mix of plaid, sparkling holiday ornaments and fresh-picked extras in a festive red-and-green color palette. Here, a dining table is topped with a red plaid cloth (snipped from soft discount fabric!) and simple white dinnerware. Dressing up plates with evergreen sprigs and ribbon-cinched napkin rolls continues the lovely yet laid-back feel. The finishing flair? A twinkling centerpiece made by nestling 4 battery-operated pillar candles into a rectangular tray filled with extra baubles and pine and holly sprigs. It’s the perfect brunch spot for celebrating Yuletide cheer with family! Pretty up place settings with holly-kissed napkins Adding holiday pizzazz to plates is as easy as tying pine cones, ornaments and…

Spark holiday joy with a cozy brunch!

A very merry mix to bring on bliss!

WHAT’S NEW Right now, florists are giving supermarket roses a holiday makeover by weaving in fresh-picked foliage and surprising seasonal extras. “Here, feathered evergreens and ruffled roses mingle with scarlet plume for a textural, festive look,” says designer Cathy Herrold, owner of Graci’s Flowers and Gifts in Pennsylvania. “And the tray of nuts and pine cones adds rustic charm!” GET THE LOOK Fill a 6"-tall vase with water. Cut 16 roses, 10 scarlet plume stems and 6 small branches of evergreens (like eucalyptus, pine and fir) to lengths between 8" and 10". Add evergreen branches to vase, forming a soft, rounded mound. Next, insert the rose and scarlet plume stems between branches, spacing evenly. Set the vase on a square tray, then fill tray with pine cones and nuts. INSIDER’S SECRET To make supermarket roses…

A very merry mix to bring on bliss!

So-pretty ways to transform fading holiday plants

Revive droopy amaryllis with a gilded seasonal display “Blooming Christmas plants can continue to have a gorgeous life beyond their plant pots as cut flowers,” says Teresa H. Sabankaya, author of The Posy Book (TeresaSabankaya.com). “Here, amaryllis, which means ‘splendid beauty’ in the language of flowers, are snipped from their drooping stems and supported in a beautiful seasonal bouquet.” To get the look, arrange handfuls of evergreens in a 6"-tall vase to form a lush base, then tuck in a few green carnation stems, pink roses and skewered ornaments. Next, snip amaryllis stems from their bulb, fill each hollow stem with water, plug the end with your thumb and submerge the stem into a water-filled vase to ensure proper hydration, suggests Sabankaya. Replace water every other day and keep away from…

So-pretty ways to transform fading holiday plants

smart HOME solutions

Secret to keeping a dish warm in transit You promised to bring your green bean casserole to the holiday gettogether, but there won’t be oven space to reheat it when you arrive. The solution: Line the bottom of a cardboard box with a dish towel and set the casserole dish on top. Then place a few more rolled towels around it. The cloths will keep the food warm until you arrive at your destination, plus will mop up any spills that might happen in transit. QUICK POLL How do you easily clean oven racks? Getting oven racks squeaky-clean can be a hassle. Instead, try these simple, scrub-free reader tricks: 58% ♥ this idea! Place them in the bathtub with 4 to 6 dryer sheets, hot water and some dish soap, says Lisa Dixon. Softening agents in…

smart HOME solutions

10 brilliant uses for CORKS

1 Protect a counter from hot pots With so many holiday dishes to cook up, you often run out of trivets to put hot pots and pans on. To keep your surfaces from getting scorched, make your own trivet with corks! Just use a hot-glue gun to glue corks together, then wrap a string around the bundle to ensure they stay together. Once dry, the heat-resistant corks will protect counters and tabletops. 2 Stabilize wobbly furniture Eek! You were excited to bring home the end table your sister no longer wanted, but one leg is a bit short, making it wobbly. The fix: Measure the size of the gap causing the problem, then cut a round of cork to the same thickness and glue it to the leg. The cork disk will keep…

10 brilliant uses for CORKS

Let ‘leftovers’ help others

Transform holiday cards… into smiles for children You love the sweet sentiments in holiday cards, but once the season is over, they quickly turn into clutter. Yet you don’t like throwing them away. The feel-great solution? “Donate them,” suggests Stacy Henderson, founder of recycling and repurposing site ForZilch.com. One excellent option: St. Jude’s Ranch for Children (StJudesRanch.org). They take old holiday cards and redesign them into brand-new ones that they then sell, with proceeds going to St. Jude’s programs for children in need. Says Henderson, “You can also check with local retirement homes and hospitals—many of them accept old cards for craft projects.” Transform wrapping paper… into next year’s joy If you love picking out new gift wrap every season, consider donating this year’s extra rolls to your local Toys for Tots. The…

Let ‘leftovers’ help others

Score last-minute presents for less!

Snap up streaming deals “Gift cards are always the most requested holiday gift, and you can send them via email in seconds without worrying about inventory or shipping! The ones with the best deals come the holidays? Streaming services, especially since everyone is spending more time bingeing shows and watching movies at home these days. One example? Last year, Disney Plus offered a year-long subscription for just $70, 20% off the month-to-month billing price.” —Rebecca Gramuglia, consumer expert at TopCashback.com Divvy up bulk sets “Forget to shop for teachers or co-workers? Run into a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club and look for multipacks of decorative tins like a tower of chocolate-filled boxes from Godiva ($38) or four Starbucks tumblers ($20). You get four or five gifts for the price of one and…

Score last-minute presents for less!

“With faith, hope and kindness nothing’s impossible!”

Marsha Hinman was settling into her airplane seat when, suddenly, she gasped in horror. Oh, no! My book! I left it in the terminal! Calling over the flight attendant, she begged to be allowed to go get it, but the door to her homebound flight from Florida to upstate New York was already locked and couldn’t be reopened, she was told. My whole life’s in those pages! How could I be so careless! the 72-year-old widow sobbed. Legacy of love Marsha started chronicling her life three decades earlier after her husband, Dan, suffered a life-threatening heart attack, then, after recovering, was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. At first, it was a way to keep track of his medical journey, but the book quickly turned into a tribute to the outpouring of love showered upon…

“With faith, hope and kindness nothing’s impossible!”

3 heartfelt ideas to preserve your family memories!

1 Share moments! Turn photos into movies in minutes! Visit Smilebox.com, create a free account, choose a template and upload your photos to generate a slideshow of the photos. The unlimited storage will hold your videos in your account forever. Want a physical photo book? Visit Snapfish.com to have your photos organized and bound starting at $12. 2 Create a cookbook! Have each member in your family write down their favorite recipe, scan them all onto a computer and print copies to bind together as your own family cookbook! Want a hard copy to cherish for years to come? Log on to CreateMyCookbook.com and follow the steps to get recipes bound starting at $20. Plus, you can also access recipes digitally through the app for free! 3 Collect stories! Host a Q&A time with all…

3 heartfelt ideas to preserve your family memories!

4 stories that will warm your heart

The power of love Paw prints on the heart “I’ll admit, I still feel like a kid whenever it snows. Although I’m a senior who lives alone with my 12-year-old golden retriever, Bella, I still can’t resist going outside in the dizzying white flakes, giggling and sticking my tongue out to catch them. “One afternoon, after coming back from a walk with Bella, I decided to make a snow angel in my front yard. I closed my eyes, sweeping my arms and legs up and down, missing when I used to do this with my siblings when we were kids. Suddenly, it felt a bit lonely, so I stood up, but when I admired my imprint I saw something else. Bella had left a trail of paw prints all around my angel in…

4 stories that will warm your heart

smart PET solutions

Stop Fluffy’s food begging If your cat is meowing for more food even when her bowl is full, she may just want more of a challenge! A recent study in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery found that cats want to “hunt” for their food. To satisfy her urge, put her kibble in an empty toilet paper tube, loosely tape it shut, and put it somewhere for her to find. When she bats it about, food will slip out, keeping her fed and occupied! QUICK POLL How do you nix your cat’s morning antics? Lately, your sweet cat has been “knocking” at your door before sunrise! To keep her from waking you up, try these top reader suggestions: 54% ♥ this idea! Place a fan outside the door, blowing away from the room, says Katy…

smart PET solutions

Help for pelvic organ prolapse Q: I’m 62 and overweight, and my doctor just diagnosed me with pelvic organ prolapse. She suggested I try a pessary, which I had never heard of. Wouldn’t it just be putting off the inevitable of having pelvic reconstruction surgery? A: Pelvic organ prolapse, which affects about 40% of women over 40, happens when the pelvic tissues and muscles become too weak (often because of aging and increasing weight) to support the pelvic organs, so they drop from their normal position into the vagina. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness in the vagina, bladder or bowel; frequent urination; sexual problems; or pelvic and back pain. A pessary is a rubber or silicone circular device that’s inserted into the vagina to hold up the vaginal walls and pelvic…

A heartfelt act of true kindness

When I was 10 years old, we lived in an apartment complex in the heart of West Los Angeles. Dad, Mom and I resided in a lovely two-bedroom just off the 405 freeway. Dad was an X-ray technician and wanted to be close to the veterans’ hospital where he was on call most weekends. Every Christmas, Dad would delight in decorating the apartment. We had a tall, gorgeous tree, trimmed with tinsel, blinking lights and colorful ornaments that had been lovingly handed down from generation to generation. He dotted our patio with poinsettias and holly. A green-and-red wreath always graced our front door. And inside, discreetly placed here and there, was mistletoe. My parents always stopped under it for a Christmas smooch. As an only child, I knew there would be lots…

A heartfelt act of true kindness

Relax and renew in Tulum!

Nestled on the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is the historic and picturesque town of Tulum. Formerly a Mayan city, this seaside destination is known for its seven miles of pristine beaches, stunning views, perfect temperatures year-round and a charming downtown—all of the makings of a great holiday getaway. Begin your escape by soaking up the sun on Playa Paraiso. “It’s a gorgeous beach with easy access to food and drinks at a variety of restaurants,” says Sapfelzweig89 on TripAdvisor.com. “You can easily set up shop on the sand for free or pay a minimum in drinks and bites for a shaded cabana. While there were many people swimming and relaxing, the beach never felt crowded and we enjoyed our visit!” To explore wonders below the water, snorkel in Cenote Dos…

Relax and renew in Tulum!

Enter to win at FirstForWomen.com/WinDec A bundle of books! Paging all bibliophiles: You have one chance to win a bundle of 25 books from Bedside Reading! Valued at $463, the grand prize is packed with everything you need to stay occupied through the doldrums of winter, from motivational to historical fiction to suspense and more! Visit our website for official rules and to enter. French Knot Hand Warmers! Keep warm in style this season with two chances to win a pair of artisan-made hand warmers from French Knot! A $59 value, these handmade, ethically sourced warmers add a joyful, vintage feel to your look! Winners can select a pair of knitted hand warmers of their choosing out of a variety of beautiful designs. Visit our website for official rules and to enter.…

7 books we’re loving now

Family saga Christmas in Peachtree Bluff by Kristy Woodson Harvey “When holiday stress and to-do’s left me feeling like Scrooge, I knew it was time to take an evening off and open up this book, which was at the top of my to-be-read pile,” says Patty Bontekoe, FIRST Executive Editor. “And it delivered!” A few weeks before Christmas, a hurricane is headed to Peachtree Bluff, an island in Georgia, and Ansley Murphy, her husband and their teenage granddaughter are unable to evacuate, leaving them stuck on the island to weather the storm. As the storm hits—and in its aftermath—Ansley’s three grown daughters try to get back to the island and make sure their family is safe. “This book is the fourth in a series about the Murphy women—it’s easy to follow even if…

7 books we’re loving now

Crossword ACROSS 1 Alas, in Augsburg 4 “Yeah, right!” 8 Madeline of Blazing Saddles and Clue 12 Half a rum cocktail? 13 Blue Devils’ school 14 Miracle Met Tommie 15 Colony attacker 17 Horror actor Lugosi 18 Maiden deity 19 Happy Days catchphrase 21 Performs adequately 23 Original American Idol judge Paula 24 Part of A.D. 25 Astronaut Shepard 28 Adams of Dear Evan Hansen film 29 Hargitay of Law & Order: SVU 32 Actress Longoria 35 Save, with “away” 36 Fussy sort 40 Osmond or Curie 42 Minerva, on the Acropolis 44 Swell treatment 47 Austerity 48 Dog in Peter Pan 49 Old West villain 51 JFK predictions 52 Skin moisturizer 53 Sailor’s yes 54 Hodgepodge 55 Stocking parts 56 Racket extension? DOWN 1 Recent DWTS contestant Kloots of CBS’ The Talk 2 Echo location 3 Underworld figures 4 Tater state 5 Except 6 Just manages, with “out” 7 Polo of Fox’s The Big Leap 8 One stuck in the kitchen 9 What to do 10 Balloon gas 11 With precision 16 English derby…

capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) With Mercury moving through your sign, giving a presentation or an important meeting will have you feeling empowered. Express your most ambitious ideas from December 13 on. Then on December 21, a blast of confidence will have you feeling driven. You can easily hit big goals now. aquarius (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Around December 14, hit pause on work to have fun. Doing so can be good for the heart. Then, you’ll have fortune on your side when Jupiter moves through your second house of income on December 28. Taking on a new project could bring in extra cash. pisces (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Expect more collaboration with co-workers from December 13 on. Together, you can build something you’re all proud of. Then, on December 28, lucky Jupiter will be in your sign, expanding opportunities to…

How do I subscribe? You can order subscriptions online at FirstForWomen.com or write to us at First for Women, P.O. Box 37173, Boone, IA 50037. What if I have a problem with my subscription? For duplicate, late or missing issues, as well as any other questions about subscriptions, send your mailing label with details to the address above, or visit our website. For customer service, call 800-938-8312. How do I file a change of address? Send the mailing label along with your new name or new address to the mailing address above or visit our website. How do I order back issues? Send a check or money order ($4.50 per copy for U.S. orders; $7.50 for foreign orders) and issue date(s) to First for Women, Reader Services, 270 Sylvan Ave., Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632. To pay by…

5 stories that will make you smile

fun Time to unwrap Epsom, England—Looks like these meerkats were on Santa’s nice list! The cuties at Hobbledown Adventure Farm received a surprise present filled with enough treats to feed the whole family. adorable Ready for a snuggle Saint-Aignan, France—Nothing beats cuddle time for panda Huan-Huan and her precious cub, Fleur de Coton. The Beauval Zoo mama was seen pampering her tot with kisses after the youngster awoke from her snooze. Panda cubs are quite small when they’re born, so their mothers have to be very gentle when handling and carrying their little ones. This mom is known for being extra protective and loving too! silly ’Tis the season Whipsnade, England— This jolly Asian elephant at Whipsnade Zoo seems quite charmed by the scent of pine. Elephants have more smell receptors than any other mammal, so when zoo…

5 stories that will make you smile

I told you to check the gas tank before we left! Well, there’s always next year! Things kids say SUGAR ’N’ SPICE After a holiday dinner at my mother’s house, my 4-year-old daughter, Lisa, asked if she could have a second piece of cake. My mom said, “You have quite the sweet tooth!” Lisa replied, ”Actually, Grandma, I have a whole mouth full of them!” —Kathy Gardner, ME SMILE FILE “Happy New Year! I’m celebrating early in case I fall asleep. And by ‘in case,’ I mean I already put on my pajamas and took an Ambien” —Ellen DeGeneres THAT’S LIFE! What we see What our cat sees We want to hear from YOU! Have a funny photo you’d like to share with other readers? Send it to Last Laugh, First for Women, 270 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632, or email laugh@firstforwomen.com.…

In This Issue

Description

Details

Reviews

Recent Digital Issues Browse all

Recent First for Women Digital Issues Browse all back issues

First for Women (Digital) Subscription January 13th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) January 13, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription December 30th, 2024 Issue

First for Women (Digital) December 30, 2024: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription December 16th, 2024 Issue

First for Women (Digital) December 16, 2024: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription December 2nd, 2024 Issue

First for Women (Digital) December 2, 2024: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription April 7th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) April 7, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription March 24th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) March 24, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription March 10th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) March 10, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription February 24th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) February 24, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription February 10th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) February 10, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription January 27th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) January 27, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription January 13th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) January 13, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription December 30th, 2024 Issue

First for Women (Digital) December 30, 2024: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription December 16th, 2024 Issue

First for Women (Digital) December 16, 2024: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription December 2nd, 2024 Issue

First for Women (Digital) December 2, 2024: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription April 7th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) April 7, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription March 24th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) March 24, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription March 10th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) March 10, 2025: $4.49

First for Women (Digital) Subscription February 24th, 2025 Issue

First for Women (Digital) February 24, 2025: $4.49

Customers Also Viewed

Taste of Home Magazine Subscription March 25th, 2025 Issue

Taste of Home Magazine

(861)

4 Issues: $19.98 ~~$23.94~~

Consumer Reports Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Consumer Reports Magazine (Digital)

(1911)

12 Issues: $24.00 ~~$83.88~~

Us Weekly Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 14th, 2025 Issue

Us Weekly Magazine (Digital)

(2064)

52 Issues: $38.99 ~~$363.48~~

Family Handyman Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Family Handyman Magazine (Digital)

(871)

7 Issues: $14.99 ~~$48.93~~

First for Women Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 7th, 2025 Issue

First for Women Magazine (Digital)

(226)

26 Issues: $26.24 ~~$116.74~~

Celebrate with Woman's World Magazine (Digital) Subscription February 13th, 2025 Issue

Celebrate with Woman's World Magazine (Digital)

4 Issues: $19.97 ~~$51.96~~

Northshore Magazine Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Northshore Magazine Magazine (Digital)

10 Issues: $9.99 ~~$59.90~~

Betty White Tribute Magazine (Digital) Subscription January 21st, 2022 Issue

Betty White Tribute Magazine (Digital)

Betty White Tribute: $14.99

Reader's Digest Magazine Subscription March 1st, 2025 Issue

Reader's Digest Magazine

(975)

8 Issues: $19.98 ~~$55.92~~

Taste of Home Magazine Subscription March 25th, 2025 Issue

Taste of Home Magazine

(861)

4 Issues: $19.98 ~~$23.94~~

Consumer Reports Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Consumer Reports Magazine (Digital)

(1911)

12 Issues: $24.00 ~~$83.88~~

Us Weekly Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 14th, 2025 Issue

Us Weekly Magazine (Digital)

(2064)

52 Issues: $38.99 ~~$363.48~~

Family Handyman Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Family Handyman Magazine (Digital)

(871)

7 Issues: $14.99 ~~$48.93~~

First for Women Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 7th, 2025 Issue

First for Women Magazine (Digital)

(226)

26 Issues: $26.24 ~~$116.74~~

Celebrate with Woman's World Magazine (Digital) Subscription February 13th, 2025 Issue

Celebrate with Woman's World Magazine (Digital)

4 Issues: $19.97 ~~$51.96~~

Northshore Magazine Magazine (Digital) Subscription April 1st, 2025 Issue

Northshore Magazine Magazine (Digital)

10 Issues: $9.99 ~~$59.90~~

Betty White Tribute Magazine (Digital) Subscription January 21st, 2022 Issue

Betty White Tribute Magazine (Digital)

Betty White Tribute: $14.99

Reviews

195

22

3

3

3

Previous

123456...23

Next

Ask a Question

Click stars to rate

Please select a rating for the review.

Please enter title for the review.

Please enter content for the review.

Please enter order number.

Please enter your first name and last name.

Only letters allowed for first name and last name.

Please enter your email.

Upload photo

Cancel Submit

Processing...

Thank you for your feedback! Your review has been submitted and will be published soon.

OK

Be the first to ask a question about this product

Please enter content for the question.

Please enter at least 10 characters.

Your question can not be more than 150 characters.

Please enter your first name and last name.

Only letters allowed for first name and last name.

Please enter your email.

Submit Processing...

Thank you for your question! Your question has been submitted and will be published soon.

Answer this question

Please enter content for the answer.

Please enter at least 10 characters.

Please enter your first name and last name.

Only letters allowed for first name and last name.

Please enter your email.

Submit Cancel Processing...

Thank you for your answer! Your answer has been submitted and will be published soon.

OK

×