Velata Recipe of the Month - March 2014 Nutty Bacon Chocolate Popcorn

Check out our Recipe of the Month! We use our fabulous fondue and delicious ingredients to make one-of-kind creations. Velata's as versatile as it is delectable! Recipe below:

Nutty Bacon Chocolate Popcorn

Servings: 8-10

1 pouch Velata Dark Chocolate
1 cup chopped or sliced almonds (or your favorite nut)
1 package thick-cut bacon
20 cups plain popped popcorn

1 1/2 cups firmly-packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup butter
6 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Preheat oven to 275 degrees F.

Cook bacon until crisp. Transfer to paper towels to drain and let cool.

Cut bacon in half-inch wide strips. Set aside.

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugars have dissolved completely. Increase heat until a rapid boil appears. Let boil for 2-3 minutes and do not stir.

Remove pan from heat. Stir in baking soda and vanilla whisking quickly until caramel turns light in color and doubles in volume.

Put popcorn in a large bowl and pour caramel over popcorn. Using a large rubber spatula, gently fold the caramel into the popcorn until evenly coated.

Mix in almonds and bacon until well incorporated. Transfer popcorn mixture to a parchment-paper-lined and rimmed baking sheet and spread into an even layer without crushing popcorn.

Bake for 45 minutes, stirring gently every 15 minutes to evenly coat the popcorn with caramel. Remove from oven.

Melt chocolate (follow pouch instructions).

Drizzle chocolate over caramel corn. Refrigerate popcorn until chocolate is set. Once set, break popcorn into chunks and store in an air-tight container.

Making People Feel a Part of the Team

“ No bird soars too high, if he soars on his own wings. ”

— William Blake 

We've all been there at some point.  We have either worked in a team in school, in the workplace or in our personal life (from doing sports or volunteering).  I did my HR Management Degree from BCIT.  The British Columbia Institute of Technology.  Everyone who attended BCIT knows what BCIT actually stands for.  "Being Crammed Into Teams".  It was always stressful in school to be in a team or working in groups.  It was ironic because my first class was Organizational Behavior.  Our teacher had put us in odd numbered groups.  Our group had 7 people.  It was the perfect OB experiment.  3 of us worked hard and wanted a good grade on our project.  While the 4 seemed okay being "social loafers" and riding our coat tails while we did the work.  They rarely showed up for group meetings and when they did they never accomplished their part of the workload.  We have all seen this before, and probably even experienced it first hand.

Being in teams is tough.  There are many different personalities and different work methods.  The key is finding what works and how you can all work together.  It can be frustrating but it can be so rewarding.  Its true we can't do it on our own.  Helen Keller said “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much”.  We just have to find a way to work together.

One thing I've noticed in working in teams is that someone always seems to take control.  Rarely have I ever worked in a team where everyone was viewed equal.  Let's face it, its the fact of life.  Some of us like to lead while others like to follow.  However, some people don't handle leadership roles well.  These are not your awesome leaders.  These people mostly bark orders and demand things and cannot easily adapt.  They cannot delegate and are often over working themselves.  Most of the time they are isolating themselves from the team and eventually people grow tired of the abuse and quit the team.  Respect goes a long way.

Most people want to feel like they fit in.  As a Manager, it was always ingrained in our heads that "everyone is replaceable".  Sure everyone is..... But I’ve found that a big part of feeling valued occurs when individuals are aware that they add something to the team that no one else can. The more you recognize people's specific contributions to the team, the more irreplaceable they’ll feel. RECOGNITION.

Communicate Communicate Communicate.  Lack of communication is the biggest downfall of any relationship.  If you are working in a team there is nothing worst than not sharing information with each other. People want to feel a part of it so sharing information is important!  This includes making decisions that affect the group.  No sense in making the decision on your own and then later on announce to the group "by the way I just decided......." That's just frustrating and annoying in itself.   Isn't it a team?  There is no I in team the last time I checked.  LOL

That brings us to our next point.  There is no I in team but there is a M and an E.  Yes Me.
"It takes a village to raise a child"....... so let's acknowledge that and remember that.  Making someone feel like they are important and part of the team means being conscious of how you speak about the group.  Using words like "me, mine, I", can be more damaging than you know.  Its important to speak of the group as a whole.  Words like "we, ours, us" make people have warm fuzzies.


NO BACKSEAT DRIVING
Don't be a backseat driver.  Let go of the reins and trust that others know what they are doing.  We all hate always having someone following up and making sure that you are doing everything right.  I know its hard to do, but they say the best leaders allow others to do!  People like autonomy and like to own their work.  Nobody likes to have someone constantly watching over their shoulder.

Let's work together!!!  Remember together we can achieve the world! 

2014 Charitable Cause Buddy - Roosevelt the Rabbit

One of the many reasons why I love this company!!!

Rossevelt can be purchased on my site at :  www.ilovescents.ca 

Is Your Networking Paying Off?

Like a lot of people these days, I am out there networking.  I belong to a few network groups each of them for various reasons and different groups.  I belong to groups to  help promote our Boxer Rescue, and I belong to groups that help promote my Scentsy business.

Last night I was at one of my monthly group meetings.  I have been a part of this wonderful group for over 2 years now.  I was having a nice conversation with one of the ladies.  We had both seen each other before and we both seemed familiar with each other from other meetings but we had never ever had the proper introduction nor the chance to get to know each other.  We were finally at the same table together and enjoying our conversation.  Another lady came over who is a long time member and I have met on several occasions.  She asked me very nice and pleasantly "are you new here?".  I was surprised by the question, but I responded by saying "No I've been here for over 2 years now".  I didn't tell her that I know her full name and I also knew what she did for business.   This than got me thinking......

Is my networking working?  I spend several hours a month "out there".  I'm out there meeting new people and seeing the same familiar faces.  I have been invited to speak at several events on many occasions about my Scentsy business and our rescue. And I'm even on the committee of one of the groups.  Now I was wondering if it was all for not.

Networking is a funny thing........  How do you know if your doing it right?  I haven't really gotten a ton of business from my network groups.  I notice that people seem to favor and refer business to the other people in the network groups, and I'm intrigued by this.  How did they get people to refer business to them?  Is this because they have been going longer than me?  Or do they like them more?

They say that the 4 worst networkers are:

1. the Pusher

2. the Wandering Eye

3. the Cling On

4. the Salesman

I don't think I am any of these.  I am polite and I am not pushy.  I give everyone my full attention when they are talking and I always make eye contact.  I don't get attached to one person and follow them around and I am not always selling and being a "salesman".   There are so many do's and don'ts to networking.  Look them up on the net.  There is so many!!! 

Let's face it everyone is there for one thing and one thing only.  They are there to meet people and to promote something.  Whether it be themselves or their business.  I think a lot of it boils down to being polite and friendly.  ....ever meet any of those networker's that talk all about their themselves and their own business, yet when you chime in with what you do, they seem uninterested?  That is one of the big don'ts.

I do know that the key to networking is consistency and to get to know people.  I go to my meetings regularly as much as I can.  It's important to be seen a lot, it keeps you in the fore front of people's memories.....well it's supposed to!!  I don't expect people to refer me business right away.  I think that most people will refer you if they get to know you more.  If they like you.  This is why I spend many hours networking.

Although I don't think its a complete loss that I haven't been given a lot of business from my network groups, I do still think they are a huge benefit.  I have met some of my closest friends from these groups.  I have been learning a lot about myself and gaining so much knowledge. 

There is nothing wrong with meeting new people and expanding your horizons.  It forces you to come outside of your comfort zone.  And I am certain that one day it will pay off! 

March

March is here.  What to say about March?  What do they call this month?  Hmm..... it's exciting because Spring is around the corner.  Although you wouldn't know it, it was FREEZING out today and they are calling for snow.  Matt and I had the honor of spending the day celebrating with a Boxer who is fulfilling his "bucket list".  It was Romeo's 9th birthday today.  His mom and dad weren't sure he was going to make it but he did and they had a huge celebration at Lafarge Lake for Romeo and invited all his Boxer friends.  Romeo is a bit of a celebrity now.  His mom and dad found out that the has bone cancer.  They decided to help him celebrate his life by fulfilling a bucket list for him.  He's done so many awesome things!  He met Bif Naked, rode in a fire truck, rode in a police car, ate a Keg dinner, and now has been on CBC, and many local papers.  He's such an adorable boy and his story not only tells us to cherish what and who we have but it teaches us courage and to live in the moment.  Thank you Riina for allowing us to share in Romeo's story.

Watch Romeo's Story Here on CBC

March is also March of Dimes.  March of Dimes is a charitable organization that funds lifesaving research and programs and works to end premature birth, birth defects and infant mortality.  So its only fitting that  we kick off this season's Charity Cause with the March of Dimes (in the USA).  In Canada the Charity Cause contributes to the Starlight Foundation of Canada.  

Meet Roosevelt the Rabbit. Proceeds from the sale of each Roosevelt the Rabbit will go to "Starlight Children's Foundation" Canada. Starlight supports children and their families - from the emergency room to recovery. 

Both these causes are so important to families.  And Scentsy has created a way to help both the charities. 

OK so not only is March a new month but its a WHOLE new catalog for Scentsy Fragrance!!!  WE kick off Spring/Summer with all new products, scents and a whole bunch of NEW!!!

I know I can't post all my favorites because there just isn't enough time.  But let's start with a few new things!!

MEET your new SPRING SUMMER 2014 Scents!

I seriously love the new catalog.  It means summer is almost here and that also means CONVENTION! or as we like to call it at Scentsy "Scentsy Family Reunion".  YAY baby!!  St. Louis this year!  Here we come!  Doesn't mean you can't join us!  All is welcome!!!   Join our team and come along.  I promise you it will be memorable and you will have a BLAST!  

To join our Scentsy team or for more information please visit our site 

You can join any one of our brands - Scentsy Fragrance;  Velata; or Grace Adele  

March's warmer of the month is not just 1 but 2 WARMERS!!!  Check it out.  Scentsy is celebrating their 10 year anniversary by saying "THANK YOU!"  

An AWESOME deal!!!  Get it while you can.  Supplies are limited so if you want to get your order in contact us today!  or purchase online at www.ilovescents.ca  

Velata has launched their new catalog and the new Raclette has been so popular that its been hard for Scentsy to keep them in stock.  Each month Velata will feature a recipe created by consultants like me!!!

This month is a recipe from Star Director - Amanda.  It makes my mouth drool just thinking about this!


Matt and I are very pleased to announce that we are going to feature more of our Grace Adele line.  I have personally fallen in love with the bags.  Even though I have many Coach, Michael Kors and Gucci bags, I find that the Grace Adele bags are so much fun!  They are affordable, well made and functional.  I love the compartments and I love how everything fits together.  You can create your own look!  With Grace Adele it makes putting together a stylish look effortless.  You can have multiple designer looks for an affordable price.

Look what I just ordered for myself!  Love it!!!

Shelby bag and Lynn Clutch in Ocean

Kinley bag and Claire Clutch

It's going to be so much fun selling and showing off these great bags!!  I love my job!!!! 

Interested in learning more about Grace Adele?  Visit my site!! www.ilovehandbags.ca

OR MAYBE YOU'D LIKE TO HOST A PARTY!?

If you host a party within the first 9 days of the month; you could be eligible to win your party!!!  That's right your party could be FREE!!!  Check it out!

We are on the lookout for parties!!! -  As you know we "ALWAYS" take care of our party hosts!  YUP we make it worth your while with any qualifying party!  

And remember we offer referral incentives!!!  If you refer a friend to host a party or join our Scentsy team, we will make sure that you know how grateful we are!!! We love referrals and always take care of the person who refers!!! 

Well kids that's it for now.  Happy March!!!!  I look forward to seeing you all!!! 

Have a SCENTSational day!!! 

Slow Cooker Lamb Shanks with Fennel & White Beans

This recipe takes a bit of prep work but I think its gonna be worth it!!!

6 Lamb Shanks (about 4 lb)
2 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion finely diced
1 1/2 cups each diced carrot and fennel
2 cloves garlic minced
1 tsp each dried thyme and fennel seeds
1 cup dry white wine
1 cup sodium reduced chicken stock
2 cans (each 19 oz/540ml) white navy beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup chopped drained oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

- sprinkle lamb with salt and pepper.  In a large skillet heat half of the oil over medium high heat and brown lamb.  Transfer to a plate.  Drain fat from pan
- Heat remaining oil fry onion, carrot, fennel, garlic, thyme and fennel seeds, stirring occasionally until softened.  5 mins
- Add wine, stock; bring to a boil, stirring and scrapping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan.  Pour into slow cooker.
- Add navy beans and tomatoes to slow cooker.  Add lamb, pushing into liquid.  Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until meat is tender and separates easily from the bone.  Transfer lamb to a plate.  Skim off fat in slow cooker.  Stir in parsley.  Spoon into shallow bowls top with lamb.

As long as you use Gluten free chicken stock this recipe is gluten free.

WHAT??? February Already??? !!!

February is here.  And we couldn't be happier.  Unfortunately we didn't make our incentive trip but we were very close this time.  And we are going to make it for sure next time!!  I am confident of it that we will get there.  Its just a matter of time.  We are still happy even tho we didn't make the trip.  Matt and I both worked very hard and feel a huge sense of accomplishment.  Plus we grew our team and our team members continue to thrive and build their Scentsy business!

I got my new car and I simply cannot tell you how much I love it.  I got the Kia Soul.  Its one of the best valued vehicles on the market.  Since I got my car I've been catching up on Scentsy deliveries.  All my Scentsy delivers arrived just in time that my new car did.  Whoohoo!!!  Scentsy being delivered in style!

So things have been busy for us.  Matt has been super busy with his Real Estate and working hard for his clients.

We also decided that we are keeping our little foster dude, and have renamed him (accordingly).  Yep we now have a little Anakin Sidewalker.  He is the cutest little man but he does have a little mischief in him.  He arrived thru another rescue that got him from a back yard breeder.  Anakin's mom and dad were brother and sister.  This little man had several medical conditions since birth.  He was from a litter of 8 puppies and all the puppies were sold to make money for the owners.  I feel awful because I wonder how many of his sibblings also have the same issues.  We ended up with Ani because nobody wanted to euthanize him nor did they want to pay the money to find out how to fix him. Basically the back yard breeders did not want to take responsibility for their actions.   Rescue a Boxer stepped up and brought this boy into our care.  We paid for his heart scans and medical workups.  After appointments with specialists it was determined that this young pup has a grade 5 heart murmur and  pulmonic stenosis.  But the worst part of it is that he also has a severe case subaortic stenosis.  Basically the wall of his heart is almost 5 times thicker than it should be.  Blood doesn't travel thru his heart very well and the vets say that his life spam is bleak.  He also has fissures in his anus and does not have control of his bum.   Don't feel bad for him!!  He is a REAL puppy and you wouldn't know that he is sick.  He has the energy of a pup and more to spare!  He is living a comfortable and healthy life thanks to Rescue A Boxer and the care that was provided by the vets and specialists.

Because of his heart issues he isn't a good candidate for adoption.  Let's face it........this little guy wasn't going anywhere anyhow.  He walked right into our house and captured our hearts.  He is definitely part of the Star Wars pack.

I cannot stress the importance of rescuing a dog.  There are so many homeless dogs that need and deserve a great home.  It is estimated that 3 to 4 million dogs are euthanized in the US each year.  That is a huge amount.  A number that keeps me awake a night.  If you feel that you must have a puppy please contact a reputable breeder.  A reputable breeder breeds the dogs to better the health of the breed.  They know what they are doing and aren't just playing God.  They do health and temperment testings on their dogs.  They aren't  always breeding their dogs and aren't having litters after litters.  The reputable breeder will show you where the mom lives and you will see how well the mom is taken care of.  We hear of many sad stories and its heartbreaking.  Recently I was told about how a backyard breeder bred his female and was selling the puppies on Craigslist.  The mom normally lives outside except they allowed her inside just to birth her pups.  Once the pups were birthed the mom was banished outside again.  They only brought her inside to nurse the pups.  All the puppies were sold without any health testing done on the mom or the dad or the puppies.  They were sold before they were old enough to leave their mom.  pups should stay with their mom till at least 8 weeks.  These pups were sold at 5 weeks old.  The owner is also selling the mom on Craigslist and is advertising her as a good breeding dog, that will provide the buyer with a good income of puppies.  It breaks my heart that people are so cruel and so heartless.  Please people rescue!  Adopt a dog, there is one out there that needs you! 

Next week I am going to Scentsy Spring Sprint with my team.  I'm looking forward to it because a friend is coming along as well.  She has been on the fence about joining Scentsy.  I was on the fence before too (not for long mind you) but it wasn't long before I took the plunge.  And I'm so glad that I did.  I cannot tell you how much of a positive impact it has had on our lives.  Scentsy has 3 brands.  There is one there for everyone!  I represent all 3 brands of Scentsy (Scentsy Fragrance; Velata and Grace Adele).  Truth be told Scentsy Fragrance is still my favorite! 

I am excited to learn all about the new things that Scentsy is going to be doing this year.  PLUS I get a free gift box with new products!!!

February Spring Sprint means that there is only 5 more months till the BIG Convention!!!  Just in case I didn't tell you.....it's in St. Louis this year!  And with it being Scentsy's 10 year anniversary its guaranteed to be HUGE!!! 

Who wouldn't want to join this company???

Of course February is a new month so there is a new Warmer of the Month and a new Scent of the month.  "Sparkling Citrus Pear" is one of my new favorites!!!  Its been very popular.  I received it the last week in January and my package of scents is almost all gone!!!  I love this scent.  Try it!!  You may just love it too!!!

 SCENTSY IS ON SALE!!!  yes! that's right!  almost everything in the current catalog is on sale.  Why?  because we are clearing space for the new Spring/Summer items.  There are many items and scents that are being discontinued.  Sad but true.  Unfortunately we cannot stock all the scents there is just too many!!!  So check out the sale!!!

This is a great time to host a party!!!!  With the sale people get more bang for their buck!!!  Your friends who know and love Scentsy can stock up on their discontinued faves.
PLUS you as a Hostess will get to choose from hostess gift and still get FREE products!!!

The new catalog for Spring Summer Grace Adele is ALREADY out!!!  Check it out!!  I love this line of bags.  It helps keep me organized!

Well happy shopping kids!!!  I know which one I'm getting!!!  Well let's see....... there are a few there that I want!!! LOL :)