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(BPT) - Looking to throw an all-out summer soiree that is bound to be the talk of the neighborhood? Or maybe just an intimate barbecue with some of your friends? Don’t be afraid to explore new ideas for hosting your summer party, showing off your hosting skills to all your friends.
Try some of the tips and tricks at a new Paramount Citrus website dailysqueeze.com to guarantee your gathering will be a summer blockbuster to remember.
* Get your grill on: Now is the time to tune up the grill. Creative grilling starts before your meat and veggies hit the heat, and a splash of citrus flavor is just what they need to stand out among the crowd. Find ways to add an extra kick of flavor to any barbecue dish at dailysqueeze.com. Add the tang of freshly squeezed lemon juice to chicken marinades and the kick of lime zest to spicy dry rubs for steak and chops.
* Shake up some cocktails: Grab a variety of spirits with a few favorite mixers. Place them in a designated area of the room along with lemons and limes for garnishes. This will take the burden off you to feel required to replenish your guests’ drinks and let you enjoy your party. If you’re looking for that perfect summer refreshment and a signature drink for your party, try making this simple yet delicious lime cooler from Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger of Los Angeles’ acclaimed Border Grill.
Minty Lime Cooler
Makes 2 servings
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice from a Paramount Citrus lime
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup packed mint leaves
1 (12 ounce) bottle cold sparkling water
lime slices and mint sprigs for garnish
Combine the lime juice, sugar and mint in a blender. Puree until smooth. Fill two tall glasses half-full with ice cubes. Pour half of the lime juice concentrate in each. Top with sparkling water, garnish with lime and mint and serve.
For a Mojito, adults can pour 1 ounce white rum into tall glass with ice, and top with Minty Lime Cooler.
* Choose a theme: Everyone loves a good party theme. Pick a food theme like southern barbecue or Mexican. Or choose a theme for attire such as “all white” or “summer hats.” Ambiance is also key, since it will set the tone of any party. Invest in some fun patio lights, lanterns or tiki torches to place around your yard if you plan to utilize your outside space.
* Don't forget the kids: If you know children will attend your party, have kid-friendly items ready for them to play with such as chalk or bubbles. Better yet, rent a bounce house. The kids are sure to entertain themselves for hours while parents can take a break and enjoy the party.
With these tips, your summer soiree will be the talk of your neighborhood, and your friends will be sure to request an encore performance next summer.
Be sure to visit www.dailysqueeze.com for additional recipes.

(BPT) - Parents everywhere agree – potty training can be a struggle. You worry about taking your toddler out in public or trying to find ways to simultaneously encourage potty training and boost your child’s self-confidence. Still, of 1,000 moms surveyed, 76 percent feel that their child’s personal growth as a result of potty training is, ultimately, a big reward.
Every parent goes through the potty training stages, and every parent will experience a challenge or two during the experience. The following advice from Pull-Ups Potty Training Partners Dr. Heather Wittenberg and Jen Singer addresses the fears parents and toddlers have during the training process and explains the Pull-Ups Potty Breaks Ritual – a simple call-and-response routine that keeps potty training fun and consistent.
* Not making it in time – It’s helpful to monitor how long it’s been between potty breaks and how much your child has had to drink. Reminding your child to go is another important step. Sixty-eight percent of 1,000 moms surveyed say that accidents occur as a result of their toddler not wanting to stop playing and take a potty break. Get your child excited with the potty breaks ritual by calling out, “What does a Big Kid take?” and let them excitedly respond, “A potty break”.
* Fear of the toilet – For children, the fear of falling in the toilet or of something reaching up to grab them is both real and scary. Remember that toddlers may not understand a logical explanation. Instead, try to take their mind off of the fear by turning the experience into something fun. The Pull-Ups Big Kid App offers more advice for parents and fun activities and games to help toddlers have fun with potty training.
* Accidents – We all know accidents happen. While it may feel like you’re causing a scene, remember that no one around you is as concerned about it as you. Try to stay positive and be prepared. When heading out the door, bring an emergency kit containing wipes, a change of clothes and some fresh training pants. Pull-Ups Training Pants have new Disney Monsters University designs to help get kids excited and to take the scare out of potty training.
* Taking too long to train – As one of the most common potty training concerns, every parent has a different idea about what is “too long.” Don’t let external pressures give you false expectations about your child’s development or potty training process. Potty training is a marathon, not a sprint, so enjoy the ride.
* Training on the road – Vacations and trips can interrupt a child’s schedule, from traditional sleep times to potty training. Try your best to schedule stops and count on spending extra time for potty breaks. Once you’re at your destination or back home, jump back into your normal training routine.
Every child will have a unique experience with potty training. Establishing a fun, consistent routine ensures you’ll both endure fewer frustrations and share a positive experience together. Before you know it, your little one will soon be a Big Kid.
For more potty training tips, inspiration and tools, visit Pull-Ups.com.