14 signs you need a vacation!!

Are you "over it?"  We get it... you need a vacation!  Check out this hilarious compilation of GIF's that show just how badly you need to get away and come to Camp Reveille this summer! Enjoy! 

14 Signs You Need A Vacation

Reveille Recipes: Summer Salads

It's hot out there! So we think it's time to chill out...with a summer salad!

With a variety of your favorite fresh summer ingredients available from your local grocer, farmers' market, or even your garden - now is the time to chop 'em all up and throw them together to make delicious, colorful, summer salad! These salads will have you feeling refreshed, satisfied and cool as you beat the summer heat:

Greek Pasta Salad
Recommended by: Lindsay Weinberg
Reveille Camper & Staff

I saw this recipe on The Food Network and tried it out on our family that very night. I love it because it’s a light dish for the summer, but you still get to have some pasta which I love! It’s perfect for a BBQ and you can bring it with you to a party since there’s no mayo to go bad in the sun. I love the combination of greek flavors in greek salad and this changes it up a bit! Also, the dressing is SO simple!

Ingredients:
1 cup of orzo
1 cucumber chopped
1 container of grape or cherry tomatoes halved
2 green onions chopped
1/2 pound crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh dill

Dressing:
1 tbsp dijon mustard
1/4 cup white wine vinegar (or red wine vinegar, whatever you have!)
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions:
Bring 8 cups of cold salted water to a boil, add the orzo and cook till al dente, drain and set aside.
While the orzo is cooking, go ahead and make the dressing: whisk together the mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper till smooth. Slowly whisk in the olive oil till emulsified. Set aside.
In a big bowl, combine the orzo, cucumber, tomato, green onion, salt and pepper. Crumble the feta and sprinkle the dill over the top. Stir.
Drizzle half the dressing and stir.
Add more dressing as needed or serve extra on the side.

Summer Corn Salad
Recommended by: Sarah Lambert
Reveille Camper in: 2007 - 2011

One of my favorite things about summer is the fresh vegetables, especially the corn from local stands. We make this salad all summer long and there are never leftovers after a big dinner with friends! It is super easy and tastes like summer.

Ingredients:
5 ears of corn, boiled or grilled
1 container of cherry tomatoes or 1 large tomato chopped
1 red onion chopped
Fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste (you can also use basil if you prefer)
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and pepper
2 tbs Olive oil

Directions:
Cook the corn and let cool.
Then cut corn off of cob.
Combine with tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
Add lime juice, olive oil, and salt and pepper.
Stir to combine and enjoy!

Joan’s Salad

Recommended by: Joan Lunden

My house is the go-to spot for all of our family occasions. Birthdays, Anniversaries, Super Bowl, you name it and we’re hosting! No matter what kind of food we’re having, I almost always make a big salad and everyone has coined this “Joan’s Salad.” It’s simple, I have always just put my favorite salad ingredients together and somehow, it became a hit! Of course salads are the easiest dish to personalize, you can add or take out anything you like or don’t like and include anything you have around in your fridge that day. Here’s what I put in mine to please my family and friends!

Ingredients:
Chopped romaine
1 cucumber, chopped
Shredded carrots
1 can of chickpeas
1 can of corn
1 can of sliced beets
1 can of mandarin oranges
Candied walnuts
Croutons

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a big salad gown and serve with dressing choices on the side!

What are your favorite summer salads?

"I Have Breast Cancer"

As some of you may have heard this morning on Good Morning America, I have been diagnosed with breast cancer and am currently undergoing treatment.  Of course as those of you who have been affected by breast cancer know, it is daunting journey ahead of me, but one that I am facing head-on…and what a perfect place to do that – here on the Reveille campus, the beautiful shores of Long Lake. 

As I always do, I will be spending my summer (and doing my treatment) up in Maine where Camp Reveille is held.  Reveille has always represented health, rejuvenation, and women’s wellness and I feel lucky that I get to be here in this environment as I embark on this.  I am also uniquely lucky that I have our incredible fitness trainer Beth Bielat who runs our Camp Reveille fitness program with me by my side. 

I want you all to know that Reveille is in full swing and we are planning another fantastic session for all of our women. I will be there to lead the weekend as I always do and I can’t wait to see and meet so many friends, both old and new.  I look forward to the classes and camaraderie, but even more importantly I look forward to the strength that is always felt when we as women gather together to support one another. 

I invite you to read my letter posted on my JoanLunden.com blog, and as always please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or concerns you might have.  We are always here to help make your camp experience the best getaway of your summer! 

Read Joan’s Personal Letter

The Buzz About Camp Reveille

June Reveille Readers

We've been catching up on our reading over here, have you?! We have collected some great books from past and future Reveille campers and we are excited to share them with you just in time for summer poolside weekends!

Future 2014 Reveille camper!: Linda Sherwood

Linda's Pick: Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter

Linda's Review: The summer is the perfect time to wrap yourself up in Jess Walter’s Beautiful Ruins. This novel begins on the rocky coast of Italy in 1962, spans 50 years and two continents with dozens of interesting characters, both real and fictional, who are star struck, love struck and sometimes just stricken…You’ll be engaged by the creative style and this engaging story from beginning to end. 

Book Description:  Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter is the story of an almost-love affair that begins on the Italian coast in 1962...and is rekindled in Hollywood fifty years later.

Reveille Camper: Carla Slater Kettrick 

Camper in: 2013

Carla's Pick: The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

Carl's Review: I would recommend The Happiness Project by Gretchen Runbin. It is a very good launch pad for people who are looking to add a little more happiness to their lives.

Book Description: Ranked #1 on the New York Times bestseller list, Author Gretchen Rubin, chronicles her life adventures during a year period to study scientific research as well as popular culture on ways to be happier. What she discovered will change the way you view "happiness". It is the little things that matter most.

Reveille Camper: Riselle Abrams

Camper in: 2008-2014!  

Riselle's Pick: Women of the Silk by Gail Tsukiyama 

Riselle's Review: This book was of an historical nature taking place in rural China in the 1920's and 30's follows young women in a silk factory. Reminds us of the hardships in life that we all have the courage to overcome.

Book Description: Back in rural China in 1926, a group of women forge a sisterhood amidst the reeling machines of a silk factory where they work from dawn to dusk. The young women use their strength and ambition to achieve freedom they could never have hoped for on their own.

Reveille Camper: Ali Barrella 

Camper in: 2013-2014

Ali's Pick: The Promise of a Pencil by Adam Braun 

(This book is also highly recommended by Joan! She recently interviewed Adam at an event and you can hear the interview here!) 

Ali's Review: If you're looking to be inspired, this is the book for you! Not only does The Promise of a Pencil make you want to help create extraordinary changes throughout our world, but it is a self motivational story that will make you appreciate the little things in life. Items we take for granted could be considered delicacies to someone in another country. Author, Adam Braun, asked a little boy in India what he wished for and wanted most in the ENTIRE world, his shocking response was....a pencil.

Book Description: The Promise of a Pencil is the story of author Adam Braun and his journey to creating his own non-profit (or as he would call it, for profit) organization, Pencils for Promise. The riveting story of how a young man turned $25 into more than 200 schools around the world and the guiding steps anyone can take to lead a successful and significant life. 

Add Some Spring to Your Step!

Now that the weather is (finally!) warmer it's the perfect time to add a little spring to your step! After being cooped up indoors all winter, being outside and getting some fresh air will do your body (and soul) some good. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy spring outdoors with your friends & family.

Take a Walk - Experts say adults are suppose to walk an estimated 10,000 steps per day, however in recent studies, it has been found that people are only walking an average of 1,000 to 3,000 steps a day. Taking a walk not only helps you reach your daily fitness goal, but it is good for the mind and soul as well.  Getting fresh air and enjoying the scenery can wash away a stressful day or give the perfect venue for a meaningful conversation. Here are some ideas of how to get those extra steps in this spring:  

• Take your dog for a walk instead of just letting him out the back door. Your loved canine needs the increase in doggie steps too! 
• Meet up with friends and take a walk around your neighborhood. Getting lost in conversation is the perfect way to add up those steps! 
• Walk to the store. If your destination is close enough to walk to - go for it! 
• Park at the back of the parking lot. Forget trying to snag the space closest to the entrance, those few extra steps will quickly add up. 
• Take a walk around the block on your lunch break. Taking a short break from your desk will keep your body moving and your blood flowing. You will return to your desk ready to concur the rest of the day. 
• If you are interested in keeping track of how many steps you take per day, pick up a pedometer or try one of the new health trackers like Fitbit, Nike, or the Up Band. 

Take a Hike - Find a local trail in your area and go explore! Hiking is a great activity to do with a spouse, a friend, or family member. Bring a camera for some unforgettable pictures or a picnic for a rest along the way.  

Bike Ride -  Plan a date to ride a bike, it is a great activity to do with the kids, with a friend or in a group. If you don't own a bike, a lot of major cities have bike rentals that you can take advantage of. There are also group bike tours that you can join within your community and if you're feeling adventurous, join a U.S bike tour or travel overseas! 

Plant a Garden - Spring is the perfect time to start a garden and believe it or not, it can even be a workout! After a day of digging and planting, you're going to be feeling the burn.  You can plant your favorite flowers or even start your own fruit and vegetable garden. Fresh fruit and veggies are great to cook with during the summer and they taste fantastic, just make sure deer and wildlife don't get to them before you do!  

Spring is such a great time of year, so try and take full advantage of the weather before it gets too hot. Your kids will enjoy spending time outdoors and so will you! What are your favorite spring activities? 

Quinoa White Chicken Chili - a new take on a traditional recipe

 Quinoa White Chicken Chili

Reveille Camper: Sharon Cuny Howard

Camper In: 2008 - 2013

Sharon's Recipe:  QUINOA WHITE CHICKEN CHILI

Sharon's Story:  Quinoa White Chicken Chili is a delicious, family friendly, easy to make recipe. However for me, this recipe represents more than just that. It represents change and new beginnings... hmm trying to make the connection?  Let me explain. I recently completed a 21 day detox/cleanse. I know that seems to be the craze lately. That along with gluten-free, vegan, paleo and I am sure many more eating plans.  I have experimented with a few of them, been successful, lost weight, felt great...but when the program was over or I got bored it never stuck. I then came across a program called "Detox with a Purpose" created by Julie Felsher.  It is a seasonal cleanse that is not just about the food, it is about you! It goes deeper than eating well, juicing, and making smoothies. 

I wanted to share this because I feel this goes perfectly with Joan's vision and everything she has created at Camp Reveille. Joan has taught us as women the importance of taking care of ourselves, how to have fun and support each other. This is why many of us keep coming back to Camp Reveille, because we are craving this oasis. Julie was able to create this same environment with her program, so to me it seemed like a perfect fit. Everything in the chili recipe I was able to eat during my cleanse, so I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.  I hope everyone stays warm and I look forward to returning to the oasis of Reveille. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin, toasted and ground
• 3 cups chicken broth or chicken stock
• 1 cup salsa verde
• 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 (15 ounce) can white beans
• 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (~1/2 lime)
• 2 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
• salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

• Heat the oil in a large sauce pan over medium heat, add the onion and jalapeno peppers and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the garlic and cumin and cook until fragrant, about a minute.
• Add the broth, salsa verde, chicken, beans, quinoa and oregano, bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked and the quinoa is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
• Remove the chicken, shred or dice, return to soup along with the lime juice and cilantro, season with salt and pepper and remove from heat.

Slow Cooker: Optionally implement steps 1 & 2, place everything except the lime juice and cilantro in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-10 hours or on high for 3-4 hours before continuing on with step 4.

Option: Add 1 cup zucchini along with the chicken.
Option: Add 1 cup corn 5 minutes before taking off the heat.
Option: Replace the jalapeno peppers with poblano peppers or 1 4.5 ounce can of diced green chilies.
Nutrition Facts: Calories 397, Fat 8g (Saturated 1g, Trans 0), Cholesterol 66mg, Sodium 693mg, Carbs 44g (Fiber 8g, Sugars 3g), Protein 42g

SLEEP DEPRIVED? NOT FOR LONG.

Getting the recommended 8 hours of sleep each night is so important. Lack of sleep can act as a contributor to high blood pressure, obesity and other physical conditions. 

We reached out to our Camp Reveille alumni (and good friends), Lisa Mercurio and Cindy Bressler from The Bedtime Network, for their expert advice on how to create a bedtime ritual to help us get more sleep! Here is what they had to say... 

Most of us don’t get enough sleep and are desperate to know how we can get more. 

Getting a good night’s sleep starts with recognizing bedtime as a longer than imagined period of the day. Many perceive bedtime as the moment they literally crawl under the covers, but we know that’s just not long enough. Sleep is the end game but to get there we need to give our mind and body the time to make the shift from daytime to bedtime. And so, the real secret to sleep lies in what you do before you get into bed. Whether you’re 2, 22, 42, 62 or 82, everyone needs a bedtime ritual.  

We understand that creating and adhering to that ritual may seem overwhelming. So we would like to share our favorite bedtime rituals and bedtime tips. They’re very simple and just might help you help you and the ones you love to enjoy the best bedtime ever. Feel free to mix and match. The important point is to create a lasting bedtime ritual that brings you pleasure and peace. If you do your ritual nightly, over time it will signal your mind and body that’s it’s time for bed. 

Bedtime Network’s nutritionist Gayle Reichler recommends cuddling up under a blanket with a warm drink as an enormously satisfying bedtime snack. Of course, when selecting evening beverages, you want to opt for something that is not high in caffeine. Warm milk and honey is the ideal bedtime drink. Not only is it delicious and comforting, milk contains the amino acid tryptophan, a precursor to the brain chemical serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate your sleep cycle. 

Bedtime Network’s fitness guru Elisabeth Halfpapp has also developed a unique sequence of stretches, called “Night Moves,” designed to transition the mind and body from daytime to bedtime. Just five minutes of simple stretching in the evening will help you release the tension often held in your neck and throughout your body. These stretches are simple and don’t require any equipment, so they are perfect to do both at home and while traveling. 

Bedtime Network’s relationship expert, therapist Nyiri Grigorian comments, “Ever notice that your worst arguments with your kids, partner or spouse happen at bedtime?” She recommends that before engaging in a major argument you “allow some time to review and look at how you feel, even make some notes. Then, tuck your feelings away for the night. Issues that may begin a fight at night are better solved in the light of day.” 

Bedtime Network’s sex therapist Miriam Baker recommends that we examine what is standing in the way of greater sexual satisfaction for us and our partner, adding that “sex at bedtimemay actually help you sleep.”  

Bedtime Network interior designer Randy Florke recommends turning off your technology at bedtime. He (and we) believe that the only real way to power down for the evening is to let go of your cell phone and computer. While many of us feel we are unable to part with our devices, turning them off for the night is the only way for us to truly disconnect. “Don’t put a workstation in your bedroom. If space is really an issue and you have to have a desk for your laptop in your bedroom, put it away at night so that you don’t see it if you happen to get up to go to the bathroom.” No need to bring on the worry train if you awake at 3am! 

Parents of college kids living away from home or people with elderly parents: we know the temptation to keep your cell phone on is great. If you have a land line, perhaps you can ask your kids to call you at that number if they really need you “after hours.” This way you can turn off your cell phone and avoid unnecessary distractions. 
As for us, we are big fans of taking a warm shower with Dr. Bronner’s lavender soap before bed. It’s very relaxing and somehow when the shower is over even the most stressful of days doesn’t seem quite as bad. The combination of the warm water and the lavender scent definitely helps to make the transition. 

We hope we have inspired you to create your own bedtime ritual. Let us know how it goes. And if you need a little support or guidance, drop us a line at sleepypeeps@bedtimenetwork.com. We would love to hear from you. 

Night, Night. Cindy Bressler and Lisa Mercurio Co-Founders, Bedtime Networkhttp://www.bedtimenetwork.com 

P.S. We are also the co-creators of “Bedtime Beats – The Secret To Sleep,” the 60 to 80 beat-per-minute musical sleep solution. When used as the foundation for a bedtime ritual for 15 minutes nightly. Listening to Bedtime Beats each night will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

The Perfect Mother's Day Gift: Time Spent Together

Whether you live next door or across the country, the bond between mother and daughter is a unique and unbreakable one. Some of us are lucky enough to spend time together often, sharing daily moments and special celebrations. Others however have to plan such occasions to spend quality "mommy/daughter" time together...enter the perfect Mother's Day gift: Camp Reveille! 

There are a million Mothers Day gift ideas out there, from a new sweater, to a piece of jewelry, or a good book but what about giving the gift of spending time together, trying new things, embracing the challenge of taking care of yourselves? There is nothing more special than spending time with the people you love, so what about giving a unique experience together at Camp Reveille!? 

Often, as the years pass and life gets busy, the quality time that mothers and daughters spend together can become scarce, but making an effort to reconnect is priceless. At Camp Reveille, mothers and daughters can share an ultimately unique experience together. At Camp Reveille we have heard a mom say that she and her grown up daughter had never really gotten to know each other as adults and the weekend away together allowed them to do that! Reveille is a perfect and unique Mother's Day gift, the gift of relaxation and time spent together. Hear what some of our other mothers and daughters have said about their experience!  

"My mother has always said, "take the time to make memories." When my sister came up with the idea of going to Camp Reveille we just thought It would be fun. What happened was a wonderful Mother and daughter(s) experience!  Not only did we get to try new classes, use our creativity making jewelry, meet amazing women and have many other adventures, we got to be together. My sister lives in Maine and my Mom and I in Buffalo, New York so we don't get together a lot. We loved just hanging out in our cabin, drinking coffee or wine and talking. No life distractions just being ourselves and enjoying each other company! Those days at camp we created many life memories with others but the bonding with my family was priceless!" 
-Julie Bunn

"I look forward to Camp Reveille each year with my two daughters. Besides for our time to bond more, each year there's always something new to experience. I always leave feeling so refreshed and very happy I took the time for myself." 
- Elizabeth Sabia 
"My mom is the most amazing, selfless woman I know, everything she does is for her family. Camp Reveille gives my mom a well deserved opportunity to relax and focus on herself." 
- Ashley Sabia

"I have been blessed with a terrific family. Each member is unique and brings their own beauty to my bouquet of love. My daughter, Nancy was kind enough to invite me to Reveille a few years ago, so we could have some play time together. It has been a joy to spend time together and experience her so picturesque a setting. We have shared nearly all of the activities together and it is so much fun to laugh with each other whatever the activity, whether it's tennis, archery, jewelry, yoga or getting tossed off the banana boat! I am grateful that Nancy invited me to be her bunk mate and I am grateful for all you have provided for us to enjoy. I am truly blessed to be able to spend time with my daughter each year!" 
- Lorraine Bedingfield

"Sharing a REVEILLE weekend with my daughter - Shanna, daughter-in-love - Lindsay, her mom - Joan, & my sister - Emily, was truly the most LOVING, ENERGIZING, SPIRITUAL, & JOYOUS experience for me. We designed jewelry, worked out, climbed the rock wall(!), played tennis, raced cardboard boats on BEAUTIFUL Long Lake (still laughing over that!), meditated, shared make-up secrets with Emir, had massages, reflected around the Council Fire, ate too much, slept too little, hugged A LOT, embraced the sunset from the deck of our FAVORITE spot in the whole world, & danced the last night away... Even the moments in our bunk were special & memorable. The gift of REVEILLE was priceless. & there was NOTHING like embracing this "heaven" with the girls that you LOVE MORE THAN ANYTHING IN YOUR LIFE!!! XOXO" 
- Louise Weinberg

"Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers in the universe! Camp Reveille was an awesome fun time for me and my 2 daughters, it was a great bonding time for us we had lots of fun lots of activities and we took back home lots of shared memories. Nicolette lives in NYC and Brielle recently moved to NYC and when we get together with friends and family, there is always some conversation of our summer-girls-me-time at Camp Reveille! We are looking forward for this end of summer camp experience this summer again." 
-Rivka Cohen

There is still space for you and your mom to experience Camp Reveille together this summer! 

For more information:  

CampReveille.com 

Register for Camp Reveille

Easter Recipes

Everyone has their holiday traditions and many of those include food. If you're looking for a great new Easter recipe for this weekend, look no further than these Easter Reveille Recipes! 

Breakfast Strata Florentine
Reveille Recipe from camper: Gail Migliozzi
Camper In: 2013

Ingredients: 

Breakfast Strata Florentine

• 1/2 cup diced fresh onions 
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella   
• 2 cup crumbled turkey sausage (precooked like Jimmy Dean) 
• 2 1/2 cup reduced-fat (1 or 2%) milk 
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese 
• 2 cup pasteurized liquid eggs (Egg Beaters) 
• 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach (squeeze-drain before measuring) 
• 6 slices thick-sliced sourdough bread (do not remove crusts) 
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic 
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (optional) 
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 

Directions: 

1. Spray 9 x 13 pan with non-stick coating. 
2. Line pan with 6 slices bread, tearing bread to fit. 
3. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese over bread in pan. 
4. In large mixing bowl, combine: 
• 2 ½ cups reduced-fat milk 
• 2 cups crumbled turkey sausage 
• 2 cups pasteurized liquid eggs 
• ½ cup chopped spinach 
• ½ cup diced onions 
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic 
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (optional) 
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper 
5. Pour mixture evenly over cheese in pan. 
6. Sprinkle mixture with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. 

Cooking Instructions: 

• Preheat oven to 350F. 
• Bake uncovered 50-55 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted. 
• Let stand 10 minutes before slicing and serving. 

Notes: 

• Cooking times may vary due to differences in ovens. 
• Freezes great – just combine all a-h ingredients in ziplock bag, 2 cheeses in separate baggies, and bread separate. If frozen or partially frozen, add 15-20 minutes baking time.

Nani's Easter Sweet Pie

Reveille Recipe from camper: Ali Barrella 

Camper In: 2013

Make your own dough! (optional)
Dough Ingredients: 

Nani's Easter Sweet Pie

• 2 cups flour 
• 1 stick of butter 
• 2 tsp. sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 jigger rye
• Juice of 1 lemon 
• Enough milk to get dough soft 
• 1 9x18 Pyrex dish

Dough Directions:

1. Roll dough thin enough to cover the entire Pyrex
2. Carefully place rolled out dough to cover entire dish (including the sides)
3. Bake at 350F. for 1 hour

Sweet Pie Filling
Ingredients:

• 3 lbs. ricotta cheese
• 1 doz. eggs
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 tsp anisette
• 3 oz. orange juice 

Directions:

1. Combined all ingredients in a large bowl
2. Mix well
3. Pour filling into dough covered Pyrex
4. Bake 1 ½ hours at 325F. 
5. When knife comes out clean pie is done. 
6. Let cool

Gail's Hummus Deviled Eggs
Reveille Recipe from camper: Gail Migliozzi
Camper In: 2013

Ingredients: 

Gail's Hummus Deviled Eggs

• 8 Large Eggs 
• Hummus flavor of your choice
• Paprika (optional) 

Directions: 

1. Place eggs in cold water and bring to boil. (Always add an extra one or two because some never peels right)
2. Take off heat, cover, let sit for 15 minutes. 
3. Peel eggs, rinse, dry.
4. Cut lengthwise, discard yolks.
5. Fill with hummus flavor of choice.
6. Sprinkle with paprika (if you choose) 

Passover Recipes

If you celebrate Passover then there's a good chance you're cooking today. Here are Passover recipes from our kitchen to yours... 

Bubbe’s Perfect Firm Jewish Matzoh Balls, Kosher for Passover

Reveille Recipe from camper: Janet Penn
Reveille Camper in: 2008 - 2013

Makes 18-24 matzoh balls
Ingredients:

• 1 cup Matzoh meal
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 tablespoons oil or 4 tablespoons melted schmaltz (chicken fat)
• 4 tablespoons water or 4 tablespoons broth

Directions:

Follow these instructions carefully

1. Measure and mix dry ingredients into a bowl.
2. Individually break the eggs into a clear glass, discarding any with blood spots, and then pour into a second bowl.
3. Add oil or schmaltz (and water or broth for firm Matzoh balls) to the eggs and stir gently with a fork until the yolks are broken and the oil just mixed.
4. Pour egg mixture into the dry mixture and gently mix with the fork.
5. PLEASE DO NOT OVER MIX.
6. Place in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
7. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil on the stove.
8. After Matzoh ball mix has set, gently remove teaspoon fills of the batter and roll into 1"-2" balls and drop into the water.
9. When all the balls are in the water leave it to boil until all the balls float to the top, then lower the temperature to a rolling simmer for 40 minutes and your Matzoh balls will be ready.
10. PLEASE DO NOT STIR AT ANY TIME.
11. The Matzoh balls may be removed from the water with a slotted spoon and served in soup.

Lou Lou's Matzoh Farfel Kugel

Reveille Recipe from campers: Louise Weinberg & Shanna Weinblatt
Reveille Camper in: 2013

Ingredients:

• 2 cups matzoh farfel
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 3 eggs slightly beaten
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 Tbs salt
• 4 Tbs cottage cheese 1%
• 2 oz. light cream cheese
• 1 cup scalded milk (put milk on high heat and pull off as soon as it starts to boil)
• 1 Tbs vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Cover matzoh farfel with boiling water and let stand for 10 minutes
3. Mix all ingredients together in an oven to table casserole. Do not cover.
4. Bake for 30 minutes or until browned.

Grandma Joie's Beef Brisket

Reveille Recipe from: Lindsay Weinberg
This recipe is from my dad's mother Grandma Joie who was the best cook! The recipe got passed around and to this day our family friends make it and now I make it for my husband! 

Ingredients:

• 1st cut brisket
• 13 x 9 roasting pan
• 2 packages french onion soup mix (boil w 1 cup water) 
• 1 bottle heinz chili sauce
• Ginger snap cookies 
• 1 quart ginger ale (and or dollop beer)
• Onions, Carrots, Potatoes 

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F 
2. Cut up yellow onions, carrots, red potatoes and put in big pot 
3. Pour the soup mix over the brisket 
4. Pour the chili sauce over the brisket 
5. Layer ginger snap cookies over the brisket
6. Pour the ginger ale gently over the brisket
7. COVER and cook for 1.5 - 2.5 hours:
1. Cook for 30 minutes at 425°F
2. Then turn down to 350°F 1.5 hours 
8. Baste!
9. Take the brisket out and slice it AGAINST the grain, then return the slices back into the juices
10. Add liquid if needed, liquid should still be covering it 

The Things They Carried, Orphan Train, and 2030... Reveille Readers April

Spring has FINALLY arrived and there is no better way to welcome the warm weather than with a good book! We have three great recommendations for you this month and Joan was eager to share one of her new favorites! And don't forget - we love receiving new book suggestions, so click here or email us here to submit recommendations for next months Reveille Readers!

Reveille Reader: Salie Fraenkle

Camper In: 2009, 2010 

Salie's Pick: The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

Salie's Review: One of the best books ever written about Vietnam. I’ve read everything that Tim O’Brien has ever written and this is my favorite.

Book Description: The Things They Carried is a collection of short stories about a platoon of soldiers fighting in the Vietnam War. The stories catalogs the variety of objects Tim O’Brien (the protagonist) and his fellow solders keep with them while at war, objects like a rifle, morphine, and M&M candies. Among other things, it deals with the surreal and ambiguous nature of war. 

Although this is a fictional story, O'Brien wrote parts of The Things They Carried from his memories of real life experience as a Vietnam solider. Twenty years after his service in Vietnam, forty years since the war, he still carries parts of it with him....


Reveille Reader: Ellen Shapiro 

Camper In: 2013, 2014

Ellen's Pick: Orphan Train By Christina Baker Kline

Ellen's Review: Orphan Train opened my eyes to a time in our history which I knew nothing about. In a compelling story, this book describes and details the lives of homeless children who were orphaned and abandoned from the mid 1800 to the early 1920's. They were transported to foster homes on "Orphan Trains". The story is told through the relationship that develops between 2 women...a young girl and a 91 year old woman who had been one of those Orphans and is the main narrator of the story.

Book Description: Orphan Molly Ayer is close to “aging out” of her foster care physicality. When Molly is assigned a community service position helping an elderly woman clean out her home, Molly learns that she and Vivian aren’t as different as they seem to be...  Read more

Joan's Pick - 2030 The Real Story of What Happens To America  by Albert Brooks 

Joan's Review: This is a funny, eye opening, and jaw-dropping look into what life could be like in America in our near future. As the medical world advances with findings such as cures for cancer and technology continues to develop, humans will be able to live longer and longer.  The older population could grow to reach unheard of numbers as the dwindling younger population bears the burden of trying to care for them. I finished this book as I was landing in San Diego to attend the Aging In America conference, which was pretty ironic!  While there I heard the astounding statistics that I had just read in this book, only without Albert Brooks' comedic sensibility! I highly recommend this one!  

Book Description: Is this what the future holds? June 12, 2030 started out like any other day in memory and by then, memories were long. Since cancer had been cured fifteen years earlier, America’s population was aging rapidly. That sounds like good news, but consider this: millions of baby boomers, with a big natural predator picked off, were sucking dry benefits and resources that were never meant to hold them into their eighties and beyond. Young people around the country simmered with resentment toward “the olds” and anger at the treadmill they could never get off of just to maintain their parents’ entitlement programs.

But on that June 12th, everything changed: a massive earthquake devastated Los Angeles, and the government, always teetering on the edge of bankruptcy, was unable to respond. Read more..

National Nutrition Month Advice from Health and Wellness expert: Beth Bielat

Did you know that March is National Nutrition month? Our Health and Wellness expert, Beth Bielat has some advice on how to make changes to our daily routine and increase our nutrition intake.

It's National Nutrition Month and a great time to take a look at your nutrition and well-being. Here are some helpful tips that (if you follow) will make you a little healthier, energetic and just might keep you living longer with a better quality of life....

Water - It is so important to drink lots of water, approximately eight 8-oz. glasses a day. I know we are all very busy during the day and we don't always remember to consume the necessary amount of water needed, but I came up with a new idea to help keep us remember to drink our water! I have been implementing this idea while down in Florida and it's been loads of fun and very successful - here is what you will need: Purchase 8 easy-to-get on bangle bracelets of your choice (We have used inexpensive plastic one's bought at a party store or retail store. At the start of the day, you put all eight bracelets on your left wrist. As you drink each glass of water, you switch a bangle to your right wrist. At the end of the day you should be "ALL RIGHT." It's amazing, fun, and a real talking piece. We have hundreds of people doing this at my club. Often times, members THINK they drink plenty of water, but it's a real eye-opener. You could become a health advocate just by sharing this with others!

Tweaking - (NOT twerking) Often times, making small changes in your diet can make a huge beneficial difference in the long run. Here's a few easy tweak's:

• Eat Breakfast!
If you never skip breakfast, you're already on the road to better health. If you don't like "breakfast food," try things like soups, salads, or fruits. 

• Eat Often!
Eating smaller portions every few hours is a great tweak. 

• Eat lighter, later!
Try to eat heavy meals earlier in the day when you are more active, and end your days with a light dinner. Calories are meant to be used to energize you throughout the day, we really don't need a lot of calories sitting in our stomachs as we try to fall asleep at night. 

If you feel you have trouble over-eating or want to cut out some unnecessary calories try these:

• Eat a small meal before you go out to dinner or are attending a dinner party. You will feel less hungry, make better choices and if you drink alcohol, it won't go straight to your head.
• A small salad before lunch and dinner. (It will keep you from over-eating your main course) 
• Add fruits and vegetables to meals and snacks. (fruits and veggies should be served with ever meal)
• Ask for the dressing on the side. 
• Try salsa or humus as a salad dressing.

If you're trying to lose weight or just wanting to better your eating habits, try avoiding these:

• Sugar
• White flour
• Crackers
• Cookies
• Chips and dips
• Cheese
• salad dressings with chemicals and hydrogenated oils
• Soda and fruit juices
• Fried foods
• Processed foods
• High Fructose Corn Syrup 

"You don't have to be a good cook" In my nutrition classes, I teach my clients food preparation. I always tell them that they do not have to be good cooks, just good choppers. Making chopping fun and easy, by having easy-to-get tools and having fresh foods on hand to make cooking a "no-brainer." When you shop, purchase lots of fresh fruits and vegetables and keep them ready in the fridge. I like to take a few hours on the weekend and prepare my snacks and meals for most of the week. This helps me stay on a healthy track and I spend a lot less time doing it. 

The New "Big One's" So the new war on nutrition is anti-sugar. Experts are linking many diseases with consumption of any type of processed sugar. Diseases such as Cancer, Alzheimer’s, Diabetes and Arthritis have all been connected. Another lifestyle that we are trying to change is Americas sedentary lifestyles and obesity. This struggle is considered just as important as our fight against cigarette smoking and will continue to plague our society until Americans switch their daily routines with healthier practices. STAY ACTIVE.