(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - Slaving away for weeks prepping for your first holiday meal? As the lucky ones learn sooner rather than later, it’s not working harder — it’s working smarter that gets the job done right. Why shouldn’t that apply to the upcoming holiday season?  Here are some great Thanksgiving recipes for you . . .

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - Each holiday season, hosts strive for the perfect balance between serving traditional fare and trying out palate-pleasing new recipes. Among friends and family however, the classics - which conjure up memories of holidays past - win hands down.

Here are some Thanksgiving Day recipes for the perfect Roasted Turkey spread that's sure to please the whole family.

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - For most Americans, Thanksgiving without turkey is like the Fourth of July without fireworks. That's why it's important not to deprive yourself during holiday meals. The holidays are full of temptations and an occasional treat is fine as long as you make sure to keep short- and long-term health goals in mind. 

(Mission Times Courier, San Dego, CA) - As the cost of putting food on the table continues to soar, families are looking for ways to cut costs without sacrificing taste or nutrition. It seems the price of everyday staples such as eggs and bread are increasing by the minute.

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - With the advent of the holiday season, spirited mothers everywhere are faced with a cornucopia of seasonal tasks, from shopping and wrapping to decorating and, perhaps the most time-intensive project of them all, holiday baking. Often a tireless effort to benefit friends and family, holiday baking -- with a little creativity -- can become the highlight of your season. 

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - Do low-calorie sweeteners cause weight gain? This seems to be the burning question these days, and one the media appears completely dazzled by.  A close look at the clinical research, however, reveals the reality - low-calorie sweeteners are helpful, not harmful, in weight loss and weight management efforts.

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - It will soon be Father's Day ... the perfect time to show dad how much he is loved by serving his favorite steak. While all dads are different, your dad's personality may actually determine what steak he enjoys most. Whether he is a mild-mannered filet mignon loving man or a take-charge dad who always orders a strip loin, a big juicy steak on Father's Day is sure to please.

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA)  - After the holidays, America turns its attention toward the Super Bowl, and of course, Super Bowl snacking. This year, resolve to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the game by preparing super-easy Super Bowl snacks with your microwave. 

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - On February 3, 2008, die-hard and fair-weather sports fans alike will come together in living rooms across the country to find out which team will take home the Championship. The stars of the Food Network's "Road Tasted" and authors of "The Deen Bros. Cookbook: Recipes from the Road," Jamie and Bobby Deen share their expert tips for planning a fun party. Pre-Game Strategy
Start by making a list and then, to cut down on time, visit a warehouse store, like Sam's Club, to get all your party supplies in one stop. Since you're shopping for a group, buy in bulk to get better deals. Menu
Party food should be delicious, but it should also be fun and casual -- this isn't an occasion for champagne and caviar. Avoid Party Fouls
Party food is messy -- BBQ sauce, salsa and ketchup all have a way of ending up on clothing. To keep your jersey clean until the final play, try an portable stain remover like Tide to Go. Stadium Seating
Arrange furniture in an "L" shape with extra chairs around the perimeter of the room. That way, most guests will have a good view of the television and they can also sit and talk. Post-Game Wrap-Up
To avoid hours of clean-up after the game, use disposable paper products for everything from tablecloths to plates and napkins.