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    Stress-Free Steps Toward Self-Care

    By Family Features | ContributorOver the last few years, self-care has taken on heightened importance for moms across the country.That is why Mrs. T’s Pierogies is partnering with actress, entrepreneur and mom JoAnna Garcia Swisher for its “All-Star Moms” campaign to spotlight the importance of finding ways to recharge and help these real-life superheroes prioritize me-time.Simplifying self-care for All-Star Moms everywhere can be as easy as designating a “recharging room” in the home, which offers a personal space to reset and relax. When creating your recharging room, keep these tips from Garcia Swisher in mind:Balance Beautiful with Functional: Find hosting staples like cutting boards, utensils and napkins that match the vibe of your personal space so the area can double as an entertaining space. Keep it Easy to Clean: Choose furniture and decor that can handle a little mess from snacks, like Mrs. T’s Mini Pierogies and your favorite dip, which are perfect for enjoying while binge-watching favorite shows.Add a Personal Touch: Showcase a piece that tells a story, like a favorite embroidered pillow, piece of meaningful jewelry or framed photo of an amazing memory.Bring In Something Cozy: Add cozy touches like a blanket, fluffy pillow or favorite slippers for something comfortable.Make a Statement: Let your inner designer shine by taking a chance on something bold that represents a part of your personality you don’t normally indulge.Plan an Anchor Piece: This item is the foundation for everything, such as a vintage armchair, comfy couch or storage piece that tells a story. Choose this item first then build around it.Moms can also prioritize self-care by whipping up an easy-to-make recipe, like these Margherita Pizza Pierogy Skewers, for themselves, a gathering of friends or an afternoon family snack. Pasta pockets filled with creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness and other big, bold flavors, Mrs. T’s Pierogies are simple to prepare. This means more time for moms to do the stuff they love like unwinding from the day with favorite foods in their recharging spaces. More

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    Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard-Peppercorn Sauce

    By MilkMeansMore.Org | Contributor This simple yet flavorful recipe from Milk Means More call for limited instructions and ingredients lists fueled by dairy favorites that provide nutrients to recharge the entire family.Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard-Peppercorn Sauce feature the sharp yet balanced taste of mustard and cracked black peppercorns as an easy way to dress up pork chops. Pork Chops in Creamy Mustard-Peppercorn SauceRecipe courtesy of Marcia Stanley, MS, RDN, Culinary Dietitian, on behalf of Milk Means MoreTotal time: 20 minutesServings: 43/4       cup evaporated 2% milk3          tablespoons spicy brown mustard or Dijon mustard3/4       teaspoon coarsely cracked black peppercorns1/2       teaspoon all-purpose flour4          boneless pork loin chops (1 1/4 pounds), cut 3/4-inch thick 1/4       teaspoon salt1          tablespoon vegetable oil1          teaspoon minced garlic1/4       cup reduced-sodium chicken brothcooked noodles or rice (optional)chopped fresh parsley (optional)In bowl, whisk milk, mustard, peppercorns and flour. Set aside. Pat pork chops dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of chops with salt.In large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops 3-4 minutes, or until browned. Turn and cook 3-4 minutes, or until thermometer inserted in thickest part of chops reads 145 F. Transfer chops to serving platter. Loosely cover with foil to keep warm.Add garlic to drippings in skillet. Cook 15 seconds. Stir in broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until most liquid evaporates. Stir in milk mixture and any accumulated juices from cooked pork. Cook and stir until just boiling. Immediately remove from heat and spoon sauce over chops. Serve with noodles or rice, if desired. Garnish with parsley, if desired.Turn your hectic weeknights into cause for celebration with more quick and easy recipe ideas at MilkMeansMore.org. More