Stretch food for unexpected company

Oh, no! You've just received a call that a friend is in the area and wants to drop by for a visit. It's close to dinner time and you know you can't have your friend over without offering her a meal. However, you don't have the time to run out to the supermarket, and you don't have any take-out menus on hand. Don't break into a sweat. Take inventory of your food supply and get creative. Here are some ideas to get you started:

*Fast appetizers: Conquer hunger pangs with easy appetizers. Defrost a frozen loaf of French or Italian bread, cut in half and butter the insides. Sprinkle with garlic powder and seasonings like basil, tarragon, oregano and dill. Top with mozzarella cheese or another cheese you have on hand and bake until cheese is melted. Cut into pieces and serve. Cheese and cracker platters are also easy to create. Or how about serving a "fast" vegetable dip made with sour cream and that powdered vegetable soup mix you have stashed in the cabinet? Guests can dip bread sticks, chips or fresh veggies into it.
*Go with hearty foods: Stews, casseroles, chilies and bakes are easy ways to fill guests up with few supplies - you probably have all the ingredients on hand. Chop up meats, vegetables, beans and other items, and cook in a brown gravy or tomato base. Season with spices, and serve with rice or noodles.
*Stretch packaged side dishes: Pre-packaged convenience foods are easy options for guests. Just make them go a little further by adding a few ingredients. Doctor up boxed mac and cheese with additional "gourmet" pasta in a variety of shapes. Add chopped frozen broccoli and garnish with shredded cheese.
*Make dishes look like more. Stir-frys are another option for creativity and can make food look like it has more volume. Rather than serving a small piece of steak or a chop, slice it up and add it to a wok or skillet with a frozen vegetable mix. Thicken with broth and cornstarch for an impromptu Asian dish. Or go all-American by adding the same combo to a pre-made pie shell for a fast pot-pie!
*Starches are filling. When possible, always accompany your meal with potatoes, rice or pasta. These foods are inexpensive, kitchen staples that can be used in a variety of ways. Plus, they fill the stomach fast.
*Dig into dessert. Make desserts look gourmet with a few simple touches. Have a half-eaten poundcake on hand? Slice up the remaining cake, top with whipped cream, powdered sugar and sliced fruit. Serve on individual dishes. Or, slice up a fruit pie and add a scoop of ice cream. As long as the guests don't see your dessert preparation, they won't know that you're working from half-eaten items!
With a little ingenuity and items you already have in the house, you can create a meal that will wow unexpected guests. Now your only headache is cleaning up the house before they arrive!

Important tips for protecting your eyes this summer

Everyone has heard about proper sun protection for the skin, but don't forget about protecting your eyes during the summer months. Since Americans spend a considerable amount of time outdoors, whether at the beach or simply catching some rays while exercising or doing errands, their health may pay a price. Too much sun exposure can increase your chances for serious eye damage.

More than 86 million adults over the age of 40 have vision problems according to the Vision Council of America. Approximately 80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs before age 18, when the eyes are less developed and less able to block UV rays. Here are a few tips about how you can help protect your family's vision not only in the summer but year-round:
·Know when to move into the shade: After spending time in the sun, drink lots of water to keep both your skin and eyes hydrated. Watch for the warning signs of visual problems, including squinting and headaches. If possible, stay out of the sun from 10am to 2pm when temperatures and UV levels are at their peak.
·Remember proper eyewear: Certain lenses can safely block UV radiation and help protect the eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Dark sunglasses without UVA and UVB block cause the pupils to dilate and allow harmful UV rays into the eye, potentially causing major eye damage. Make an informed purchase, and be sure to buy lenses that clearly state that they offer both UVA and UVB protection.
·Consider photochromic lenses: Photochromic lenses are those that quickly change from clear indoors to as dark as sunglasses outdoors. They are the smart choice in everyday convenience because of their ability to block 100 percent of dangerous UVA/UVB rays, and reduce painful, uncomfortable glare. Transitions® Lenses are the number one recommended photochromic lenses worldwide.
·Cover up if you plan to snooze: Lying down with eyes closed can cause sunburned eyelids, so be sure to cover the face entirely if there's a chance you'll fall asleep in the sun. Along with your sunglasses, make sure to bring a towel or hat to cover the face.
·Check your UV index: Check daily UV levels in your area and plan accordingly. Always wear proper eyewear, and also carry a hat and sunblock. According to a survey conducted by Transitions Optical, Inc., 36% of respondents wear a hat when they plan to be out in the sun for long periods of time, and only 18% wear eyewear with UV protection.
·Schedule regular eye exams for overall health: Even though vision may be clear, exams can detect changes in the eye caused by underlying health problems. Some eye diseases have no symptoms in the early stages, so make yearly eye exams part of your family's regular health routine.