I had a dinner party the other night. Being new to the area, I invited the few people I know over to mingle and meet each other. It was a fun time. I drank a little too much wine, but overall a blast. One thing I had to do before hand though that was a little tough was get appetizers together. I don't make appetizers often and have only a few recipes for such occasions, so I had to get things done, and quickly! I set the time for the party only 1 hour after getting home from work on Friday! Here is one of the recipes I will always keep for such occasions!
Mini Quiches
1 Refrigerator buttermilk biscuits
1 Cup milk
1 Cup Monterrey jack cheese with peppers, shredded
2 Eggs
2 green onions, chopped
1. Separate the biscuits and divide each into 3 sections. Stretch the dough in greased muffin tins to form a shell.
2. Mix the milk, cheese, egg, and onions and spoon into the shells.
3. Bake at 375 for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
YUM! And super easy in a short amount of time. Perfect for the last minute dinner party or a girls night in with only an hour to prepare!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Where to Get the Best Stuff for the Cheapest Prices
Several months ago there was an article about the best places to get stuff. It was a real eye opener! One thing that was not a surprise- Wal Mart scored low on all accounts. Who did score high? Costco! Great quality merchandise and even better prices. Another top stop? Dillard's for clothes and personal items. Another spot not so great? Target. Although it ranked much higher than Wal Mart, it only ranked as an average quality store.
So, when you are planning a trip out, think about this; do you want service with a smile, a great price, and fun treasure hunt? Head to Dillard's or Costco. Want some rock bottom prices, go to my all time favorite place, TJ Maxx. Steer clear of the Wal Mart world and think twice before Target, and your shopping trip may be more pleasant.
Happy shopping!
So, when you are planning a trip out, think about this; do you want service with a smile, a great price, and fun treasure hunt? Head to Dillard's or Costco. Want some rock bottom prices, go to my all time favorite place, TJ Maxx. Steer clear of the Wal Mart world and think twice before Target, and your shopping trip may be more pleasant.
Happy shopping!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Find Your Local Growers!
Looking for yummy, locally- grown produce? Want some intersting, artisitc gifts? Check out your local farmers markets. They are still running, most of the time, and will continue through September or October. After that, you may have trouble trakcing them down. This is why, when you're there, get their names and phone numbers, addresses, etc. so you can contact them directly after the season of warm weather runs out.
Don't know how to find a farmer's market near you? Go to farmersmarket.org for a listing. It's a great site that allows you to search by state and city. No excuse not to support your local growers now!
There is nothing better than fresh, local produce when you are grilling out or snacking in the park, so spend an hour or so on Saturday or Sunday at see what they've got near you!
Don't know how to find a farmer's market near you? Go to farmersmarket.org for a listing. It's a great site that allows you to search by state and city. No excuse not to support your local growers now!
There is nothing better than fresh, local produce when you are grilling out or snacking in the park, so spend an hour or so on Saturday or Sunday at see what they've got near you!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Learn Your Personality- Change Your Life!
Soul searching can be one of the hardest things to do in life. Most people find this time to be when they are looking for a new job, moving to a new state/town, etc. Major life changes. In such a situation myself, I was trying to find my way. How can I define myself in a way people will understand? I know "who" I am, now I have to define it. Much harder!
This is where a personality test comes in VERY handy. Have you ever taken one? This website was a great, short, easy questionnaire that did a very good job of summarizing who I am. http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes1.htm. Try it for yourself! You may just find that writing that new cover letter/ resume or meeting new people is a lot easier!
What personality are you?
This is where a personality test comes in VERY handy. Have you ever taken one? This website was a great, short, easy questionnaire that did a very good job of summarizing who I am. http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes1.htm. Try it for yourself! You may just find that writing that new cover letter/ resume or meeting new people is a lot easier!
What personality are you?
Get rid of it! Have a yard sale.
This past weekend was an eye opener. On the eve of a big move, we decided to sell it all and start over fresh. Thinking about having a yard/moving sale sounded exciting but it is something I haven't done since middle school- and let's be honest- how much help did I really contribute? Well, after a little research and trial and error, I think I've gotten it down. There are just a few simple steps to follow, and who knows, may be you'll be as successful!
First, go through all your stuff and separate the sell stuff from the keepers.
Price everything. If it's a bunch of the same stuff consdier writing a big sign for them like," books $0.25".
The bigger the item, the bigger the sign should be. If it's a cd it's price should be smaller than a couch.
Make big, bold easy to read signs. Post them the day before or morning of. Try to make all your signs look identical. Use te same color, person writing, etc.
Advertise! There are places online people look out for sales, find out where people are looking and post your sale there a day or two before the event.
Price low. Your stuff may be worth more, but let's face it, that's not what a yard sale is about! People want amazing deals and if you don't have them, someone else will!
Finally, have fun and talk with your shoppers. They're thrifty like you and could be your new best friend. Take advtantage!
And on a side note, selling cold sodas doesn't hurt either!
Happy selling!
First, go through all your stuff and separate the sell stuff from the keepers.
Price everything. If it's a bunch of the same stuff consdier writing a big sign for them like," books $0.25".
The bigger the item, the bigger the sign should be. If it's a cd it's price should be smaller than a couch.
Make big, bold easy to read signs. Post them the day before or morning of. Try to make all your signs look identical. Use te same color, person writing, etc.
Advertise! There are places online people look out for sales, find out where people are looking and post your sale there a day or two before the event.
Price low. Your stuff may be worth more, but let's face it, that's not what a yard sale is about! People want amazing deals and if you don't have them, someone else will!
Finally, have fun and talk with your shoppers. They're thrifty like you and could be your new best friend. Take advtantage!
And on a side note, selling cold sodas doesn't hurt either!
Happy selling!
Monday, July 5, 2010
Spend your spare time more meaningfully.
So, I know, most of us are saying, "What spare time!". I know, I asked he same thing before reading on, and you know what, it makes sense for those of us with such busy life styles we consider it a luxury to take a shower. Take a second and decide for yourself, and you just may be able to find some minutes for these;
1. Write down 100 things you want to do in life- from little to big. Try to cross off a few things that require Agee dollars or hours.
2. Set aside time to focus on what you want. Don't leave it to chance, you have to make it happen. Do you want to run a marathon, set aside time in the day to practice for it!
3. Find ways to incorporate goals into small chinks of time. For instance, I want to write more so I figured out how I can do it from my phone, and now, while waiting in line at the grocery store or sitting in the car in traffic I can get a little done. If your goal in life is to read all the top classic novels, try listening to them on tape in your car on the way to work! Makes that commute less boring doesn't it?
Hopefully these tips help you feel more accomplished in your free time. I can tell you already, these 3 tips have already started changing my life!
Have done something lately that has changed yours?
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
A Festive Fourth- How to Plan a Bash Everyone Will Enjoy
From crafts to food, there are a myriad of puzzle pieces that goes into a successful Fourth of July party. To help you get the day started right, here is a compilation of suggestions for the best day ever, whether you are 9 or 90.
First things first- you have to plan your day. Think about who you are inviting and what you want them to do. Do you know there are kids coming over or is this strictly over-21? What are you all going to eat and drink?
After you plan your day you need to start buying your supplies and inviting the VIP's! After all, they are privileged to be invited to YOUR party!
Now it's down to a deadline. Make all the food, decorations, and favors you can before the big day, and then enjoy the festivities yourself.
Are you looking for some suggestions? Of Course I have some!
Games to Play:
For Food: Think traditional and BBQ!
For the Little Ones:
First things first- you have to plan your day. Think about who you are inviting and what you want them to do. Do you know there are kids coming over or is this strictly over-21? What are you all going to eat and drink?
After you plan your day you need to start buying your supplies and inviting the VIP's! After all, they are privileged to be invited to YOUR party!
Now it's down to a deadline. Make all the food, decorations, and favors you can before the big day, and then enjoy the festivities yourself.
Are you looking for some suggestions? Of Course I have some!
Games to Play:
- How well do you know your Independence? quiz http://holidays.quiz.kaboose.com/35-how-much-do-you-know-about-independence-day (Try copying the questions and answer choices and print them off yourself on festive paper so guests can fill in their own answers. Fun idea- the winner gets to hose down the loser of the game!)
- Tug-o-war
- Ultimate Frisbee
- Volleyball- especially Water Balloon Volleyball!
- Balloon Tosses
- Wading Pools
- Side Walk Chalk art
- Everyone Carries the Flag relay (Needed: Buckets of sand and small American flags. Set up the race with two teams. For each team, place a bucket with flags in it (one for each person on the team) on the far side of the yard. On cue, the first person races across to the appropriate bucket and plucks a flag. March the flag back to the team as quickly as possible. NO RUNNING! Tag the next person. The game continues until all have returned to the starting line with a flag. Everyone wins and, if you want, can keep their flags!)
- 3-legged race
- Ring Toss- Use paper plates with holes cut in the middle and wooden dowels. You can paint of cover these to match the holiday if you want to get fancy!
For Food: Think traditional and BBQ!
- Watermelon- see spitting contest to follow? Up to you!
- Corn on the cob
- Hamburgers/ Cheeseburgers
- Hot dogs
- Apple Pie
- Ice Cream
- BBQ chicken
- Don't forget your condiments- pickles, relish, ketchup, and mustard
- Potato salad
- fruit salad
- Strawberry shortcake- this is great as a make-it-yourself dessert!
- Popsicles
For the Little Ones:
- Bubbles are a sure-fire way to get kids laughing and having fun
- Try crosswords for those advanced kids and coloring pages with red, white, and blue crayons for the little ones. Get some great, free print offs at http://holidays.kaboose.com/july4-printables.html.
- Water guns- just make sure everyone is OK with getting caught in the cross-fire. It will happen if you break this out!
- If you plan on blocking off any road ways, make sure to get the necessary permits beforehand.
- Limit the celebration to a few hours to keep up the momentum- try to stay around 2-3 hours.
- Try to get things started late in the afternoon- this will allow for AM parades and will fill the time before the fireworks.
- Try to pick the location close to a firework display planned by the city. Don't try to have your own show- usually ends with a hospital and a big fine. Not a fun way to end the day- for anyone!
- A bonfire is a great way to keep guests warm and have s'mores and roasted marshmallows, especially if it is a little chilly in the evenings.
- Get your music in order- this will tie it all together!
- Freedom, George Michael
- I'm Free, Soup Dragons
- Pink Houses, John Mellencamp
- God Bless the USA, Lee Greenwood
- American Girl, Tom Petty
- America, Neil Diamond
- Me and Bobby McGee, Janis Joplin
- Rockin' in the Free World, Neil Young
- This Land is Your Land, Woody Guthrie
- The Star-Spangled Banner, Jimi Hendrix
- Hand deliver your invitations, especially with your kids. This is a great way to meet your neighbors you don't know well and also increase participation.
- Get creative with your invitations. I loved this particular one I found online. It involves the invited and gets them excited to see all your other clever ideas!
- Materials
- Acrylic Paint
- Craft Sticks
- Permanent Marker
- Ribbon
- Star Stickers
- Instructions
- For each invitation, first coat 8 craft sticks (both sides) with acrylic paints: paint 2 sticks white, 2 red, 2 half blue and half red, and 2 half blue and half white.
- When the paint has dried, arrange the craft sticks as shown to the left, then write your party details on them in permanent marker and add star stickers to the field of blue.
- Tie the sticks in a bundle with a piece of festive ribbon, then hand-deliver the invitations to your guests for them to decipher.
A Parisian Flair for Sugar! Yummy Treats For Every Occasion
French Macaroons have now become my favorite snack. There is this little sweet shop, named the Sweet Tooth Fairy, right near where I work, where I had the joy and honor of tasting one of these delightful little sugar puffs. The best thing- you can make them any flavor you want! I had a key lime that was just the right amount of sweet and sour- but I hear raspberry is amazing too. So, if you need a little Parisian escape from the day- try these out for a yummy treat.
For macaroons:
• 6 oz sliced blanched almonds (not slivered; 2 cups)
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Food coloring- I would suggest matching it to your filling color- but you could do it according to the season- impress your friends with red white and blue macaroons for this upcoming Independence day!)
For ganache filling:
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 3 oz fine-quality bittersweet chocolate (60 to 64% cacao), finely chopped
If you don’t want ganache:
o Chose a recipe from this website, http://recipes.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Category:Frosting_Recipes , I’m going to try out the strawberry filling topped with the plain frosting recipe sandwiched in between two blue macaroons.
To add flavoring, try any of these extracts:
o 1/16 teaspoon fruit extract (preferably McCormick brand- Raspberry, Cherry, Maple, Anise, Root Beer, Mint, etc. )
o A splash of juice- Orange, grape, pineapple, etc.
o Flavored coffee syrups. Blackberry syrup, anyone?
o Peanut Butter
o Crushed nuts
Equipment needed
• parchment paper
• a gallon-size sealable plastic bag (not pleated)
Make macaroons:
• Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Pulse almonds with 1/2 cup confectioners sugar in a food processor until very finely ground, 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer to a bowl. Sift in remaining cup confectioners sugar, stirring to combine.
• Beat egg whites with salt in another bowl with an electric mixer at medium speed until they just hold soft peaks. Add granulated sugar, a little at a time, beating, then increase speed to high and continue to beat until whites just hold stiff, glossy peaks. Add drops of food coloring to reach desired shade and mix at low speed until evenly combined. Stir almond mixture into meringue with a rubber spatula until completely incorporated. (Meringue will deflate.)
• Spoon batter into bag, pressing out excess air, and snip off 1 corner of plastic bag to create a 1/4-inch opening. Twist bag firmly just above batter, then pipe peaked mounds of batter (the size of a chocolate kiss) onto lined sheets about 1 1/2 inches apart. Let cookies stand, uncovered, at room temperature until tops are no longer sticky and a light crust forms, 20 to 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, put oven racks in upper and lower thirds of oven and preheat oven to 300°F.
• Bake cookies, switching position of sheets halfway through baking, until crisp and edges are just slightly darker, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool completely on sheets on racks, about 30 minutes.
Make ganache while macaroons bake:
• Melt chocolate with cream in a metal bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water or in top of a double boiler, stirring until smooth. (Bowl should not touch water.)
• Remove bowl from heat, then add butter and extract, filling, etc., stirring until butter is melted. Let stand at room temperature until cooled completely and slightly thickened.
Or, make filling while they bake (Plain Frosting):
• Put white of 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl. Add 1 ½ Cups of sugar gradually, a little at a time.
• Beat the mixture until smooth and shiny, or until it is thick enough for you.
Assemble cookies:
• Carefully peel cookies from parchment (they will be fragile).
• Sandwich a thin layer of ganache (about 1/2 teaspoon) between flat sides of cookies.
• Serve with pride and a French-flair!
Have fun and let me know how they come out for you! They're my new favorite treat!
For macaroons:
• 6 oz sliced blanched almonds (not slivered; 2 cups)
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
• 3 large egg whites
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Food coloring- I would suggest matching it to your filling color- but you could do it according to the season- impress your friends with red white and blue macaroons for this upcoming Independence day!)
For ganache filling:
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
• 3 oz fine-quality bittersweet chocolate (60 to 64% cacao), finely chopped
If you don’t want ganache:
o Chose a recipe from this website, http://recipes.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Category:Frosting_Recipes , I’m going to try out the strawberry filling topped with the plain frosting recipe sandwiched in between two blue macaroons.
To add flavoring, try any of these extracts:
o 1/16 teaspoon fruit extract (preferably McCormick brand- Raspberry, Cherry, Maple, Anise, Root Beer, Mint, etc. )
o A splash of juice- Orange, grape, pineapple, etc.
o Flavored coffee syrups. Blackberry syrup, anyone?
o Peanut Butter
o Crushed nuts
Equipment needed
• parchment paper
• a gallon-size sealable plastic bag (not pleated)
Make macaroons:
• Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Pulse almonds with 1/2 cup confectioners sugar in a food processor until very finely ground, 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer to a bowl. Sift in remaining cup confectioners sugar, stirring to combine.
• Beat egg whites with salt in another bowl with an electric mixer at medium speed until they just hold soft peaks. Add granulated sugar, a little at a time, beating, then increase speed to high and continue to beat until whites just hold stiff, glossy peaks. Add drops of food coloring to reach desired shade and mix at low speed until evenly combined. Stir almond mixture into meringue with a rubber spatula until completely incorporated. (Meringue will deflate.)
• Spoon batter into bag, pressing out excess air, and snip off 1 corner of plastic bag to create a 1/4-inch opening. Twist bag firmly just above batter, then pipe peaked mounds of batter (the size of a chocolate kiss) onto lined sheets about 1 1/2 inches apart. Let cookies stand, uncovered, at room temperature until tops are no longer sticky and a light crust forms, 20 to 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, put oven racks in upper and lower thirds of oven and preheat oven to 300°F.
• Bake cookies, switching position of sheets halfway through baking, until crisp and edges are just slightly darker, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool completely on sheets on racks, about 30 minutes.
Make ganache while macaroons bake:
• Melt chocolate with cream in a metal bowl set over a pan of barely simmering water or in top of a double boiler, stirring until smooth. (Bowl should not touch water.)
• Remove bowl from heat, then add butter and extract, filling, etc., stirring until butter is melted. Let stand at room temperature until cooled completely and slightly thickened.
Or, make filling while they bake (Plain Frosting):
• Put white of 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a bowl. Add 1 ½ Cups of sugar gradually, a little at a time.
• Beat the mixture until smooth and shiny, or until it is thick enough for you.
Assemble cookies:
• Carefully peel cookies from parchment (they will be fragile).
• Sandwich a thin layer of ganache (about 1/2 teaspoon) between flat sides of cookies.
• Serve with pride and a French-flair!
Have fun and let me know how they come out for you! They're my new favorite treat!
Monday, June 21, 2010
More on the Power of Baking Soda...
Continuing my research on the power of Baking Soda, I have found some helpful, healthier-alternative uses for cleaning using baking soda. Have you ever wondered why every cleaning product in your home is toxic? And then you bathe, touch, drink, and sleep in it? How good for you can it be?
By using Baking Soda, you can help alleviate some of this stress!
1. Soft scrub
Sprinkle on a damp sponge and scrub over surfaces. This works on glass, fiberglass, tile, sinks, tubs, etc. Rinse and wipe dry. If you really need to get something off, mix with salt and liquid soap. Let the past sit then scour off.
2. Dish Washing
Add 2 Tablespoons with dish soap to a sink of dish water. This cuts grease like no other and helps get stuck on food off too! Soak hard, caked on food for a few minutes then scrub with a sponge sprinkled with the baking soda to help get it all off and not scratch you pots and pans.
3. Clean the microwave
Clean with a wet sponge sprinkled with baking soda and rinse clean. No more harsh chemical smell hot-boxing in your food-heater!
4. Polish Silver ware
Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. rub onto silver with a clean cloth. Rinse and dry.
5. Clean coffee and tea pots effortlessly
1/4 cup baking soda and 1 quart warm water (1 quart = about 4 cups) and wash away the stains!
6. Clean the oven with out a gas mask
Sprinkle on the floor of the oven. Spray with water to dampen. Let sit overnight. Scrub and scoop the baking soda up the next day and scoop up the grime with a sponge, vacuum, or shovel. Rinse clean.
7. Clean your floors
1/2 cup baking soda into a bucket of warm water will clean or floors and give them a shine with out scratches and waxy polishes.
8. Clean furniture from little- and big- finger prints and spills
Works like a Magic Eraser but without the unknown chemical compounds in the mysterious little sponge. Use a regular, damp sponge and sprinkle with baking soda. Scrub the stains and wipe off. Dry the wet spot with a clean towel.
9. Boost your cleaning power of your laundry detergent
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to laundry to make your whites whiter and your stains disappear. Add the 1/2 cup during the rinse cycle for fresher smelling sheets and workout clothes.
10. Clean your car
Mix 1/4 cup baking soda to 1 quart (1 quart= about 4 cups) warm water. Apply with a sponge to ANY area of your car and rinse off and dry as normal. If you have a set-in stain or stinky floor mat, sprinkle the baking soda on your mats and vacuum up or sprinkle a damp sponge with it and rub in to get it out.
This is a staple beyond staple and will prove itself to you over and over again. Don't hesitate to try this little miracle powder out for yourself, and save some money in the mean time!
Do you have a wonder product who is multi-functional and fabulous? Let me know about it!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Beauty From Your Cupboard- Baking Soda's Not Just for Cookies Anymore!
In an attempt to find another at-home remedy for all your beauty needs, this article stood out to me about Baking Soda.
Have you ever wondered what the power of baking soda could be? After reading all about it, I don't wonder any longer.
There is a shelf life for this multi functional wonder, however, so be warned! It should be replaced within the year if opened, and in two years is never used (which after reading this, this shouldn't happen to you!). If you store an open container of it in the fridge to absorb odors (#1 tip on the functions of this product), don't use it for anything else! It holds odors and funky flavors and is not a good multi-function product after that.
Here are some beauty tips for at-home baking soda remedies:
1. Clean up that dirty mouth!
Put one teaspoon in half a glass of water- swish, spit, rinse.
2. Use as a facial scrub and body exfoliant
Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub around to exfoliate. Rinse. You can use this every day!
3. Make a hand cleanser and softener
Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water or 3 parts baking soda with gentle liquid hand soap. Then rinse.
4. Help your hair
Baking soda removes styling products left behind normal shampoo can’t get out. Vinegar is a go-to for hair, but this is a less noticeable smell for daily use. You hair will be cleaner and more manageable. Mix a small amount with your shampoo and lather like normal. Rinse and condition.
5. Make a bath or foot soak
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath to neutralize acids on the skin and help wash away oil and perspiration. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub.
Thanks to Yahoo.com, I will now keep this stuff handy all over my house, not just in the kitchen!
Have you ever wondered what the power of baking soda could be? After reading all about it, I don't wonder any longer.
There is a shelf life for this multi functional wonder, however, so be warned! It should be replaced within the year if opened, and in two years is never used (which after reading this, this shouldn't happen to you!). If you store an open container of it in the fridge to absorb odors (#1 tip on the functions of this product), don't use it for anything else! It holds odors and funky flavors and is not a good multi-function product after that.
Here are some beauty tips for at-home baking soda remedies:
1. Clean up that dirty mouth!
Put one teaspoon in half a glass of water- swish, spit, rinse.
2. Use as a facial scrub and body exfoliant
Mix 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub around to exfoliate. Rinse. You can use this every day!
3. Make a hand cleanser and softener
Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water or 3 parts baking soda with gentle liquid hand soap. Then rinse.
4. Help your hair
Baking soda removes styling products left behind normal shampoo can’t get out. Vinegar is a go-to for hair, but this is a less noticeable smell for daily use. You hair will be cleaner and more manageable. Mix a small amount with your shampoo and lather like normal. Rinse and condition.
5. Make a bath or foot soak
Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath to neutralize acids on the skin and help wash away oil and perspiration. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub.
Thanks to Yahoo.com, I will now keep this stuff handy all over my house, not just in the kitchen!
Do You Yahoo? You should!
An incredible source for information has been staring me in the face for years and I have just now discovered it. Yahoo.com's news stories are unbeatable. Today, there were forty different stories. Admittedly, many were nothing of interest. I'm sorry, but baseball caps and pitchers are not my idea of an entertaining read, but when it comes to expiration dates on your pantry items and how to minimize credit card anxiety, I take note!
Some of the other topics included "Are you dating a player?" "Best places to shop for everything," and "40 fantastic uses for Baking Soda." Keep an eye out for my take on these articles later. They are fantastic!
This is a go-to site for information, and if you aren't already on Yahoo, I highly suggest it! I won't skim by this section any longer!
Do you have ago-to site for information? How did you find it?
Some of the other topics included "Are you dating a player?" "Best places to shop for everything," and "40 fantastic uses for Baking Soda." Keep an eye out for my take on these articles later. They are fantastic!
This is a go-to site for information, and if you aren't already on Yahoo, I highly suggest it! I won't skim by this section any longer!
Do you have ago-to site for information? How did you find it?
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Sea Salt Scrubs for Summer- Easy At-Home Remedies
Pamper yourself with this easy,do-it-yourself, salt scrub. Thanks to Allure, I found this recipe and am so thankful I did! Do you find your elbows and heels of your feet a little dry in the summer? Does your skin need a good scrub to get all the sun-tan lotion? Try this easy recipe for yourself!
1 Cup almond, sesame, or vegetable oil (don't use olive oil here- doesn't work well!)
1 Cup kosher, table, or Epsom salt
1. Mix together and heat in the microwave for 45 seconds. Should be a paste-like consistency. Add salt if needed
And here is a twist that you may enjoy to freshen up!
1 Lemon
Coarse sea salt to desire
1. Cut lemon in half, sprinkle salt over each half, and grind into elbows, knees, heels, etc.
Hint: Don't use salt scrubs on your face! It's too rough for your delicate cheeks. Try sugar instead.
Do you have any at home remedies you use for summer-time rough spots?
1 Cup almond, sesame, or vegetable oil (don't use olive oil here- doesn't work well!)
1 Cup kosher, table, or Epsom salt
1. Mix together and heat in the microwave for 45 seconds. Should be a paste-like consistency. Add salt if needed
And here is a twist that you may enjoy to freshen up!
1 Lemon
Coarse sea salt to desire
1. Cut lemon in half, sprinkle salt over each half, and grind into elbows, knees, heels, etc.
Hint: Don't use salt scrubs on your face! It's too rough for your delicate cheeks. Try sugar instead.
Do you have any at home remedies you use for summer-time rough spots?
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Get Ready for the Fourth of July with These Easy Do-It-Yourself-In-A-Few-Minutes Crafts
Get ready for the Fourth of July! It's just around the corner, and now is the time to start planning the best day of July. What do yu normally do for this holiday? We have an interesting tradition here. We start off by watching the hot dog eating competition in Coney Island and then follow it with a contest of our own and Weiner Schnitzel. After "lunch" we go up to Park City and ride the rides at the Park City Mountain Resort. We are fans of the Alpine Slide and Mountain Roller Coaster. The zip line is fun, too. After an exhausting afternoon of rides and junk food, we go back home, freshen up and either go to a park to watch fire works, or pick some up of our own and do our own show. (Don't worry, government, they are the little sparklers and smokers. No big guys for us, I've had bad experiences before!)
But what if you don't havea plan? Or are planning on having people over? What if someone invites you to their BBQ? These are things you need to plan for. Even if you have something similar to my tradition, you still need to get your house dressed up for the holiday. And what is more classic and simple than red, white, and blue decor?
Here are some of my do-it-yourself-in-a-few-minutes decorations:
1. A festive, cloth table cloth. This option will usually end up cheaper than a plastic table cloth you will end up throwing away and will add a certani charm to your picnic or BBQ. Measure your table both width and length, and then go to the nearest fabric store, armed with these numbers. I like Joann Fabrics for this project simply because they always have a good selection, coupons for steep discounts, and already low prices on their cottons. A typical width of a fabric is 44". If you table is wider than that, plan no having a center seam to make it wider. If this is the case,double up your pieces. When getting your fabirc cut, add one inch to both the length and width to allow for seams. You don't have to sew a seam, but it will make it look nice. A frayed edge with certain fabrics can look great too- but make sure to sew a seam about 1" from the edge to stop the fray from taking over your table cloth.
2. Vases, pitchers, cups, utensils- any item that can be wrapped in ribbon is great for this tip. Pick up simple, 1/4" thick spools of red, white, and blue ribbon and wrap them with lengths of it. Tie a bow and cut the ends. You have now transformed your every day items into independance day festive ware. If you want to go a step further you can pick up fresh or fabric flowers in these colors and ties a bud in the ribbon before finishing with the bow.
3. Take a tote bag and fill it with your essentials. A friend of mine always goes to her lake house for this holiday. She always needs a towel, sun tan lotion, a changeof clothes for when it gets cooler at night, and a hat, plus a mix of other things she throws in. She started off by throwing all this into her trunk, but now she puts it into a tote. For a gift idea for her, or if you want to do this for yourself, decorate a large, plain tote with red white and blue items. Don't go too overboard with Fourth of July items, since you may want to use this bag later for something else. Try finding a stencil of flowers, nautical items, buildings, or whatever interests you and stencil them on using shades of red, white, and blue. If you stay away from traditional tones and hues of these colors, you are not pigeon-holing yourself in one holiday.
4. Don't forget outside. It is just as important to decorate your outside as it is to decorate your table. A festive door hanging, a flag, and a garland are all acceptable decorations. This is where the normal, store-bought items are not acceptable. You want to be unique and original and buying from the store is not that. Try, instead, looking at what you have. A few yards of thick, knit fabric may beall you need for the door hanging and garland. Twist the different colors around an inexpensive wreath frame, and you have yourself something unique and inexpensive for your door. Add a few flowers in appropriate colors and maybe some holiday buttons you can pick up inexpensively at a craft store and you are done. As for the garland, this is an even easier project. Twist the fabric and hang. Done. As for the flag, if you can find a vintage or looks-lik-vintage flag to hang out in your yard, that is best. Otherwise, don't attempt to create your own. Too time-consuming. Here is where store bought can be your friend.
Now, just plan your meal if you're having people over and prepare to have a great day with friends and family!
Do you have a Fourth of july hyoliday tradition? What do you like to do?
Betty Crocker Holiday Celebrations - Music, Recipes, Party Planning, and More (Enhanced CD)
But what if you don't havea plan? Or are planning on having people over? What if someone invites you to their BBQ? These are things you need to plan for. Even if you have something similar to my tradition, you still need to get your house dressed up for the holiday. And what is more classic and simple than red, white, and blue decor?
Here are some of my do-it-yourself-in-a-few-minutes decorations:
1. A festive, cloth table cloth. This option will usually end up cheaper than a plastic table cloth you will end up throwing away and will add a certani charm to your picnic or BBQ. Measure your table both width and length, and then go to the nearest fabric store, armed with these numbers. I like Joann Fabrics for this project simply because they always have a good selection, coupons for steep discounts, and already low prices on their cottons. A typical width of a fabric is 44". If you table is wider than that, plan no having a center seam to make it wider. If this is the case,double up your pieces. When getting your fabirc cut, add one inch to both the length and width to allow for seams. You don't have to sew a seam, but it will make it look nice. A frayed edge with certain fabrics can look great too- but make sure to sew a seam about 1" from the edge to stop the fray from taking over your table cloth.
3. Take a tote bag and fill it with your essentials. A friend of mine always goes to her lake house for this holiday. She always needs a towel, sun tan lotion, a changeof clothes for when it gets cooler at night, and a hat, plus a mix of other things she throws in. She started off by throwing all this into her trunk, but now she puts it into a tote. For a gift idea for her, or if you want to do this for yourself, decorate a large, plain tote with red white and blue items. Don't go too overboard with Fourth of July items, since you may want to use this bag later for something else. Try finding a stencil of flowers, nautical items, buildings, or whatever interests you and stencil them on using shades of red, white, and blue. If you stay away from traditional tones and hues of these colors, you are not pigeon-holing yourself in one holiday.
Now, just plan your meal if you're having people over and prepare to have a great day with friends and family!
Do you have a Fourth of july hyoliday tradition? What do you like to do?
Betty Crocker Holiday Celebrations - Music, Recipes, Party Planning, and More (Enhanced CD)
Monday, June 7, 2010
Meet New Friends- Plan a Party
Moving to a new area can be exciting and scary, but it can also be lonely. Even if you are moving with family or a few friends, there is a good chance that you will find yourself lonely one evening, wishing you were back where ever you came from, with your other friends and family. This is normal, and even through I'm no doctor, this will pass over time. What can help with this transition? Joining a group immediately will help. Having a job where you are surrounded by people your age with similar interests helps. Church helps. But, what will really help? A reason for them to get to know you!
I'm not talking about the perfect version of you, but the real you. Not the pulled together professional at work or the pearls and cardigan prep at church, but the real person inside of you only your friends know. And what better way to do that than to invite people into your home? And, in the case if you don't have a home, a club house. Parties are great ways to socialize on your own terms. (Tip: Don't use this opportunity to sell people something. Makeup and candles are a great side venture, but not a great way to make new friends. And don't sell yourself, this isn't a networking party. No one is going to buy you.)
Need help thinking about an excuse to invite these people over? Sure, the typical BBQ or dinner party are good fun, but doesn't draw anyone in with excitement. This is where thinking out of the box comes in handy, or a membership to a party planning website. I write this because of a recent new development I have found. Houseparty.com is my new party-planning go-to site. I will be the proud host of a Hasbro game night, with brand new games to play and fun snacks to eat. And, the kicker? It's free! You sign up, fill out an application for an interesting event you may want to host, and wait to find out if you're picked. If you are, you invite 10 people, and then wait for the big day! Take pictures and post them to your planning site, and have fun!
This is a great way to get a variety of people over to your place and let them get to know you. If they don't love you after a searing game of Catch Phrase, they're not worth being called a friend of yours nor the repeat invitation for your next amazing party!
How did you fit in in your new home? What tips do you have for re-locators?
I'm not talking about the perfect version of you, but the real you. Not the pulled together professional at work or the pearls and cardigan prep at church, but the real person inside of you only your friends know. And what better way to do that than to invite people into your home? And, in the case if you don't have a home, a club house. Parties are great ways to socialize on your own terms. (Tip: Don't use this opportunity to sell people something. Makeup and candles are a great side venture, but not a great way to make new friends. And don't sell yourself, this isn't a networking party. No one is going to buy you.)
Need help thinking about an excuse to invite these people over? Sure, the typical BBQ or dinner party are good fun, but doesn't draw anyone in with excitement. This is where thinking out of the box comes in handy, or a membership to a party planning website. I write this because of a recent new development I have found. Houseparty.com is my new party-planning go-to site. I will be the proud host of a Hasbro game night, with brand new games to play and fun snacks to eat. And, the kicker? It's free! You sign up, fill out an application for an interesting event you may want to host, and wait to find out if you're picked. If you are, you invite 10 people, and then wait for the big day! Take pictures and post them to your planning site, and have fun!
This is a great way to get a variety of people over to your place and let them get to know you. If they don't love you after a searing game of Catch Phrase, they're not worth being called a friend of yours nor the repeat invitation for your next amazing party!
How did you fit in in your new home? What tips do you have for re-locators?
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Looking for the Perfect Gift?
Father's day is around the corner... anyone else a little confused as to what to get your men in your lives? I know their personalities and what they might like, but I don't want to be mediocre in my gift-giving. I want them to open my gift and remember what I gave them. That look of pure joy and surprise when they peel back the wrapping paper and peek at their newest gadget. How in the world am I supposed to live up to that expectation? Thanks to gifts.com, I may stand a chance. This website is the coolest gift suggesting web site I have ever seen.
Gifts.com has different ways you can search for gifts, like occasions or recipient, but what makes this site unique is their personality tab. You tell the site the age range and sex of the person you are giving a gift to, and then answer a series of trait questions. After about 5 seconds of pulling it together, the site compiles suggestions for you for your friend, lover, or dad. I did a little survey for my man-and let me tell you- it hit the
nail on the head! And not just with things I would have thought of, but the stock car racing idea and the ticket stub diary where the original and fun ideas I was hoping for that are sure to make his face light up.
So, for the men in you life, or the women, stop by this website to get some creative ideas. The worst that can happen? You get some good ideas! Who doesn't want that?
Have you tried out this site? What did you think?
Gifts.com has different ways you can search for gifts, like occasions or recipient, but what makes this site unique is their personality tab. You tell the site the age range and sex of the person you are giving a gift to, and then answer a series of trait questions. After about 5 seconds of pulling it together, the site compiles suggestions for you for your friend, lover, or dad. I did a little survey for my man-and let me tell you- it hit the
nail on the head! And not just with things I would have thought of, but the stock car racing idea and the ticket stub diary where the original and fun ideas I was hoping for that are sure to make his face light up.
So, for the men in you life, or the women, stop by this website to get some creative ideas. The worst that can happen? You get some good ideas! Who doesn't want that?
Have you tried out this site? What did you think?
Friday, June 4, 2010
White Out- How to Look Wealthy without Having to be Wealthy
There are certain beauty and fashion tips that stay with you for years. There is something to be said about a magazine article or chapter of a book that sticks in your memory and keeps coming back to you when shopping. There was an article in a magazine once that I love, I can't remember what magazine it was or exactly what it said, but it was eternal. What it touched on was how to look rich without being rich. And not only that, but how to create your own style.
Here is what I remember and go to whenever I am out shopping the rows of racks the latest trends:
1. When it's summer time- nothing beats all white. Where it with confidence. Gauze-y dresses and tunic tops are classic styles.
2. Going off of number 1- think about your classics. Find an icon and imitate her. For instance, Audrey Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe. The trick- don't copy her. Invoke her style in your clothing choices. Trends are okay, as long as you think you icon would wear it.
3. Always consider your appearance beyond just the clothes. Keep your nails neatly filed and if you are wearing polish, pick a color that is related to your icon. If you don't have an icon, try a pale shade of pink, almost clear. This will give your nails a very healthy shine while looking fresh. Was your skin and moisturize all the time. Do not over tan. Heavy makeup is only appropriate if you are doing a magazine shoot, and let's be honest, not many of us have that excuse.
4. Find a good tailor and shoe repair man. Just because you bought a cheap pair of shoes or the most fabulous dress was on incredible sale but was only left in 3 sizes too big for you. If you find a good deal, it will only cost you a fraction more to get it to fit you perfect or reinforce the construction. If you want to go even further on the thight-wallet side- learn how to tailor and cobble yourself! I haven't gotten to the shoes yet, but it does save some time and money knowing how to sew clothing yourself.
5. Never, ever, ever! talk about money with people other than your closest friends. Even then, it's distasteful and rude to talk about money with people, so be careful about what you say. If you are trying to appear confident in your financial situation, the last thing you should do is talk about how much you have or don't have.
6. When wearing jewelry- gold on white is classic and crisp. But if it is costume jewelry, don't wear it if it loses it's coating. Then you just look like a cheap knock-off, and that is the worse than looking like you don't have money. Having a staple set of rings, bracelets, necklace and earrings that you wear on a day to day basis can be effective too, but will require a larger investment in the beginning. If you invest in some good stuff though, you won't have to "think" about accessorizing in the morning and still look attractive.
7. Continuing on jewelry, this point is deserving of it's own point. Never mix your metals. Don't wear gold earrings with a silver necklace. Just don't do it.
Finally, something you can't buy, is confidence. Walk with your head held high, with determination in your step, and assurance in your tone and you will ooze upper-class and wealth, even if you get caught in your sweatpants!
Do you have a go-to style that you feel makes you look well-off? Analyze it and duplicate it, over and over, so you always feel that confidence, even on your off days!
Here is what I remember and go to whenever I am out shopping the rows of racks the latest trends:
1. When it's summer time- nothing beats all white. Where it with confidence. Gauze-y dresses and tunic tops are classic styles.
2. Going off of number 1- think about your classics. Find an icon and imitate her. For instance, Audrey Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe. The trick- don't copy her. Invoke her style in your clothing choices. Trends are okay, as long as you think you icon would wear it.
3. Always consider your appearance beyond just the clothes. Keep your nails neatly filed and if you are wearing polish, pick a color that is related to your icon. If you don't have an icon, try a pale shade of pink, almost clear. This will give your nails a very healthy shine while looking fresh. Was your skin and moisturize all the time. Do not over tan. Heavy makeup is only appropriate if you are doing a magazine shoot, and let's be honest, not many of us have that excuse.
4. Find a good tailor and shoe repair man. Just because you bought a cheap pair of shoes or the most fabulous dress was on incredible sale but was only left in 3 sizes too big for you. If you find a good deal, it will only cost you a fraction more to get it to fit you perfect or reinforce the construction. If you want to go even further on the thight-wallet side- learn how to tailor and cobble yourself! I haven't gotten to the shoes yet, but it does save some time and money knowing how to sew clothing yourself.
5. Never, ever, ever! talk about money with people other than your closest friends. Even then, it's distasteful and rude to talk about money with people, so be careful about what you say. If you are trying to appear confident in your financial situation, the last thing you should do is talk about how much you have or don't have.
6. When wearing jewelry- gold on white is classic and crisp. But if it is costume jewelry, don't wear it if it loses it's coating. Then you just look like a cheap knock-off, and that is the worse than looking like you don't have money. Having a staple set of rings, bracelets, necklace and earrings that you wear on a day to day basis can be effective too, but will require a larger investment in the beginning. If you invest in some good stuff though, you won't have to "think" about accessorizing in the morning and still look attractive.
7. Continuing on jewelry, this point is deserving of it's own point. Never mix your metals. Don't wear gold earrings with a silver necklace. Just don't do it.
Finally, something you can't buy, is confidence. Walk with your head held high, with determination in your step, and assurance in your tone and you will ooze upper-class and wealth, even if you get caught in your sweatpants!
Do you have a go-to style that you feel makes you look well-off? Analyze it and duplicate it, over and over, so you always feel that confidence, even on your off days!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Laundry 101- What They Should Teach You in High School
I hate when other people do my laundry. This is probably just the control-freak side coming out, but it is never done right when some one else man's the machines. *Hint, hint to the men out there attempting to do laundry... . Something always comes out shrunken, missing a pair, spotted, or permanently stained. And despite the anal-retentive compulsion I have to do the laundry, there are times that some one has to take over. Now, I don't claim to have been born nor bred with an innate sense of how to sort, spot treat, and sign up for an extra spin, but I have learned a few things on the way.
1. Learn the signs. All labels are marked with little signs and they mean very important things. So even if your tag doesn't have directions you can figure out how you should wash it.
2. Don't spend hours reading all the little tags inside your clothes. Note the fabric and go from there. If it is cotton- it will shrink (unless it says pre-shrunk, in which case it will only shrink a little.) If it is silk- dry clean ONLY. Wool- don't use any heat and best to lay flat to dry. By knowing basic fabrics used in the majority of clothes and how to clean them you will be way ahead of the game.
3. Pre-sort. I have 3 piles. I used to have 6. Make life simple. I am down to sorting by color only- darks, lights, and whites. If you feel the need you can do a dedicates or create a separate pile for towels, sheets, etc. if you need to. Sheets and towels are good to do by themselves since you will want to use hot water to help kill off the nasties.
4. Turn it all inside out and wash in cold water. Turning it inside out helps keep decals, colors, patterns, and everything else in better condition and cold water helps keep colors fresh. Using color-safe bleach helps keep colors together too. My room mate swore that by never drying her blacks they stayed darker longer. I dry all mine. To each their own.
5. Bleach- straight Clorox bleach- will save some whites. Not all, but most. This is where you need to be careful though, a little spill and you save a white but lose a color. I do whites as a last load to prevent anything getting on the machines or other dirty clothes. Also, this prevents the washer from storing any of it inside. After you finish a load with whites in the washer, run a quick rinse cycle to prevent this from happening. New machine? May not have to worry about that, lucky!
6. Be aware of drying things. Some are best to lay flat, others can hang, while others are best in the dryer. Read tags to learn the trends and then determine what works best for you. I suggest: always lay sweaters flat (and never hang on hangers! Fold and store in a drawer), hand pants and button down shirts, lay flat dressy, frilly tops, dry down comforters (yes, you can wash them. Don't use hot water and don't put on high in the dryer. A tennis ball in the dryer will also help fluff your feathers), dry towels and sheets, dry jeans (who wants saggy knees and butts permanently? Dryer will tighten things right back up), dry t-shirts (only if you think it is not going to or already has shrunk. Cotton will shrink the first few times. The first is the most drastic, but after that, you're in the clear. Remember this when picking out sizes.)
7. Fold immediately. I am not so ridiculous that I iron right after, but I do take them out of the dryer immediately and attempt to put them away fast. This helps things from getting those deep, hard to get rid of wrinkles that usually plague your most fabulous dresses or essential work wear. For a quick wrinkle release? Mix liquid fabric softener with water, equal parts, and spritz. Should work like a charm. I do this before jumping into a steamy morning shower. Bring the clothing into the bathroom with you and hang on the towel hook. The steam will help release even more wrinkles. You may never have to touch an iron again (Wishful thinking!)
Do you have any secret laundry tips you want to share? Have you tried any of these before? How about any laundry disasters? Everyone loves a good horror story!
1. Learn the signs. All labels are marked with little signs and they mean very important things. So even if your tag doesn't have directions you can figure out how you should wash it.
2. Don't spend hours reading all the little tags inside your clothes. Note the fabric and go from there. If it is cotton- it will shrink (unless it says pre-shrunk, in which case it will only shrink a little.) If it is silk- dry clean ONLY. Wool- don't use any heat and best to lay flat to dry. By knowing basic fabrics used in the majority of clothes and how to clean them you will be way ahead of the game.
3. Pre-sort. I have 3 piles. I used to have 6. Make life simple. I am down to sorting by color only- darks, lights, and whites. If you feel the need you can do a dedicates or create a separate pile for towels, sheets, etc. if you need to. Sheets and towels are good to do by themselves since you will want to use hot water to help kill off the nasties.
4. Turn it all inside out and wash in cold water. Turning it inside out helps keep decals, colors, patterns, and everything else in better condition and cold water helps keep colors fresh. Using color-safe bleach helps keep colors together too. My room mate swore that by never drying her blacks they stayed darker longer. I dry all mine. To each their own.
5. Bleach- straight Clorox bleach- will save some whites. Not all, but most. This is where you need to be careful though, a little spill and you save a white but lose a color. I do whites as a last load to prevent anything getting on the machines or other dirty clothes. Also, this prevents the washer from storing any of it inside. After you finish a load with whites in the washer, run a quick rinse cycle to prevent this from happening. New machine? May not have to worry about that, lucky!
6. Be aware of drying things. Some are best to lay flat, others can hang, while others are best in the dryer. Read tags to learn the trends and then determine what works best for you. I suggest: always lay sweaters flat (and never hang on hangers! Fold and store in a drawer), hand pants and button down shirts, lay flat dressy, frilly tops, dry down comforters (yes, you can wash them. Don't use hot water and don't put on high in the dryer. A tennis ball in the dryer will also help fluff your feathers), dry towels and sheets, dry jeans (who wants saggy knees and butts permanently? Dryer will tighten things right back up), dry t-shirts (only if you think it is not going to or already has shrunk. Cotton will shrink the first few times. The first is the most drastic, but after that, you're in the clear. Remember this when picking out sizes.)
7. Fold immediately. I am not so ridiculous that I iron right after, but I do take them out of the dryer immediately and attempt to put them away fast. This helps things from getting those deep, hard to get rid of wrinkles that usually plague your most fabulous dresses or essential work wear. For a quick wrinkle release? Mix liquid fabric softener with water, equal parts, and spritz. Should work like a charm. I do this before jumping into a steamy morning shower. Bring the clothing into the bathroom with you and hang on the towel hook. The steam will help release even more wrinkles. You may never have to touch an iron again (Wishful thinking!)
Do you have any secret laundry tips you want to share? Have you tried any of these before? How about any laundry disasters? Everyone loves a good horror story!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Navigate Your Wedding Tight-Rope-Walk Smoothly With These Simple Rules
Wedding bells, white dresses, and doves. The perfect day every little girl, and admit it, most little boys, dream of. But what they don't dream of is budgeting, ticking-time-bomb to-do lists, and the stress of finding all the matching, perfect theme items for the "big day." But it doesn't have to be that way! I have seen this tight rope walk navigated smoothly and I have seen it crash and burn. Hopefully, from all these observations and trying to plan my own day, I will teeter-totter slightly on the way to a smooth day. Just remember, this day is as much about you as it is about the people coming to see you. Don't forget them, after all it is the reason you chose not to go down to city hall and signed some papers dressed in jeans and a t-shirt.
Here are the suggestions to making this day the most special and stress free it can be;
1. Consider yourself and your fiance. Are you a night-life partying duo or low-key home bodies? Don't step out of your comfort zone for this celebration.
2. Think about how much you want to spend. If you're down on your luck and can only afford bare minimum, stay there and get creative. Don't take on extreme debt for the sake of beautiful pictures and the top tier of the cake getting freezer burn after one year. There is something romantic and special about a small wedding in a friends home.
3. Bargain shop for your dress. If you find it unnecessary to buy a fancy dress for only one day, go onto renttherunway.com and pick it out. You pay a nominal fee to borrow a designer gown and then mail it back. Great pic's and clear closet space. Can you ask for anything better? If you can't fathom giving up your dress, think about EBay, gilt.com, amazon.com, and other discount online shopping sites. These places will help you get the designer, one of a kind look you want without breaking the bank.
4. Don't forget the little ones- that is, the ones with little experience. This doesn't mean they are without talent, it just means they are without large price tags. Up and coming photographers, graphic designers, photographers- they will all be ecstatic to work for minimal just for the practice and portfolio-building pieces. Just be sure to do your background check first. If they are students, get instructor references. If they are new to the scene- get friend and, if possible, previous client recommendations. And don't be afraid to call in favors of friends! Having a DJ friend in the mix will help with the overall cost of the event- just be sure to give something back to them. (like pay for their hotel for the weekend or a small stipend.)
5. Plan out the weekend for people. Many will be coming from out of town and won't know what to do. Save them the digging and give them a list of things to do in the area with a map. An itinerary of the wedding activities during the weekend would be helpful too. They are here to see you, after all. Let them know where you will be!
6. Remember to have fun! This is a celebration not an involuntary commitment to the luni-bin. Relax and roll with the punches. Not everything will go according to plan, and that's the fun part! No one will remember that the wrong music played during the cake cutting or that the candle went out on their table. What they will remember is how sublimely happy you and your beloved are.
These 6 rules are what I am navigating in hopes of a blissful union. Don't get me wrong, I go onto theknot.com and Martha Stewart Weddings and bury myself in wedding magazines and bridal shops, but I do so for fun. If it weren't, I wouldn't be there. Remember this and you will have a wonderful day people will always remember as just that.
How was your wedding day? A mess or bliss? Perfect or flawed? Traditional or unique? Let me know!
Here are the suggestions to making this day the most special and stress free it can be;
1. Consider yourself and your fiance. Are you a night-life partying duo or low-key home bodies? Don't step out of your comfort zone for this celebration.
2. Think about how much you want to spend. If you're down on your luck and can only afford bare minimum, stay there and get creative. Don't take on extreme debt for the sake of beautiful pictures and the top tier of the cake getting freezer burn after one year. There is something romantic and special about a small wedding in a friends home.
3. Bargain shop for your dress. If you find it unnecessary to buy a fancy dress for only one day, go onto renttherunway.com and pick it out. You pay a nominal fee to borrow a designer gown and then mail it back. Great pic's and clear closet space. Can you ask for anything better? If you can't fathom giving up your dress, think about EBay, gilt.com, amazon.com, and other discount online shopping sites. These places will help you get the designer, one of a kind look you want without breaking the bank.
4. Don't forget the little ones- that is, the ones with little experience. This doesn't mean they are without talent, it just means they are without large price tags. Up and coming photographers, graphic designers, photographers- they will all be ecstatic to work for minimal just for the practice and portfolio-building pieces. Just be sure to do your background check first. If they are students, get instructor references. If they are new to the scene- get friend and, if possible, previous client recommendations. And don't be afraid to call in favors of friends! Having a DJ friend in the mix will help with the overall cost of the event- just be sure to give something back to them. (like pay for their hotel for the weekend or a small stipend.)
5. Plan out the weekend for people. Many will be coming from out of town and won't know what to do. Save them the digging and give them a list of things to do in the area with a map. An itinerary of the wedding activities during the weekend would be helpful too. They are here to see you, after all. Let them know where you will be!
6. Remember to have fun! This is a celebration not an involuntary commitment to the luni-bin. Relax and roll with the punches. Not everything will go according to plan, and that's the fun part! No one will remember that the wrong music played during the cake cutting or that the candle went out on their table. What they will remember is how sublimely happy you and your beloved are.
These 6 rules are what I am navigating in hopes of a blissful union. Don't get me wrong, I go onto theknot.com and Martha Stewart Weddings and bury myself in wedding magazines and bridal shops, but I do so for fun. If it weren't, I wouldn't be there. Remember this and you will have a wonderful day people will always remember as just that.
How was your wedding day? A mess or bliss? Perfect or flawed? Traditional or unique? Let me know!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Save Your Sanity- Get Organized
Organization is the key to sanity. Have you ever noticed how frantic you get when you're running late and can't find your keys because they're not where you usually put them and then the rest of your day is a disaster? Now what if you had a designated spot in your home for them, that is convenient and easy to use. Would you have a much better day? Now take this example and multiply it by 10. How much better would your life be? This is what we're talking about when we say "organization is the key to sanity." And the foundation of organization? Storage.
You're saying, I live in a tiny home with no closet space, how can I possibly have a good storage system? Or, on the flip side, I live in a huge home and don't know where to begin keeping things. No matter if you fall into one of these extremes or somewhere in the middle, storage solutions will make your life so much easier. After reading an online article from Good Housekeeping, and browsing articles from Martha Stewart (of course!) I have found some interesting tips and tricks:
1. No matter what you do, it has to be convenient for you and the space you are storing in. If you can't get it easily or have to go into the garage to get something you use in the upstairs guest room, you are not going to use it and it will be a waste of time.
2. If people are going to be seeing it alot- like an open closet or kitchen pantry- dress it up and hide the ugly. no one wants to see your various cleaning supplies or dirty rags. Cover them with a pretty table cloth or in a decorative box.
3. Rubbermaid storage boxes are a life saver. Add a sharpie to label the boxes and you are golden. If you don't want to write on the box for fear of using it for something different one day, write the contents or label of the box on a piece of paper, preferably contact paper, and stick it on.
4. Shelves, shelves, shelves. Avoid stacking boxes on top of one another. If you stack, you will constantly be unstacking, and no one wants to through their back out pulling out a box of candles. By using simple shelves, either free standing or attached to the walls, it will help you avoid that.
5. For your garage- if you use this as means to entering your home- think about inexpensive cabinets to store your items. Home Depot has some beautiful options for inexpensive and will make a huge difference on peoples opinion of your home.
6. Have a catch-all station. If you come in a certain way all the time, have a place to store your shoes, hang your coats, put your mittens in, and place your keys. A bench to sit and take your shoes off, a couple hooks to hold you coats, a bin to stash your mittens, a cylinder for umbrellas, and either a hook for keys or small table and dish for keys, etc. Whatever space you're working with, this kind of entry-way station will make life so much easier.
7. Rethink closet storage. Measure your shelves, pick up storage boxes, label them, and return to the closet. You will be amazed at how much space you will clear up by using this method.
8. Have a place for your mail and keep it organized. Different slots for different people or different purposes are helpful. Also, keep a recycle or trash can near this system to be easy access for junk mail.
9. Don't forget your friends in low places. Under the bed, chairs, couches, etc. are all, often untapped, storage locations. Rubber maid makes shallow boxes great for under beds, baskets and other decorative containers, are great for visible spaces. Do you use blankets in your family room? What about in the guest room? Keep them handy using these methods without taking up any additional space than what your furniture already does.
10. Finally, group like items. Use spatulas and spoons for cooking? Store them by your stove top all together. Get out of the shower and put on lotion, Q-tip your ears, and moisturize your face? Keep them all together and near the shower. Go with this principle on shelves, in pantries, or any other space and you will save time, space, and sanity.
These are just a few things I have learned in the effort to claim a little slice of lucidity. Hopefully they will help you too!
You're saying, I live in a tiny home with no closet space, how can I possibly have a good storage system? Or, on the flip side, I live in a huge home and don't know where to begin keeping things. No matter if you fall into one of these extremes or somewhere in the middle, storage solutions will make your life so much easier. After reading an online article from Good Housekeeping, and browsing articles from Martha Stewart (of course!) I have found some interesting tips and tricks:
1. No matter what you do, it has to be convenient for you and the space you are storing in. If you can't get it easily or have to go into the garage to get something you use in the upstairs guest room, you are not going to use it and it will be a waste of time.
2. If people are going to be seeing it alot- like an open closet or kitchen pantry- dress it up and hide the ugly. no one wants to see your various cleaning supplies or dirty rags. Cover them with a pretty table cloth or in a decorative box.
3. Rubbermaid storage boxes are a life saver. Add a sharpie to label the boxes and you are golden. If you don't want to write on the box for fear of using it for something different one day, write the contents or label of the box on a piece of paper, preferably contact paper, and stick it on.
4. Shelves, shelves, shelves. Avoid stacking boxes on top of one another. If you stack, you will constantly be unstacking, and no one wants to through their back out pulling out a box of candles. By using simple shelves, either free standing or attached to the walls, it will help you avoid that.
5. For your garage- if you use this as means to entering your home- think about inexpensive cabinets to store your items. Home Depot has some beautiful options for inexpensive and will make a huge difference on peoples opinion of your home.
6. Have a catch-all station. If you come in a certain way all the time, have a place to store your shoes, hang your coats, put your mittens in, and place your keys. A bench to sit and take your shoes off, a couple hooks to hold you coats, a bin to stash your mittens, a cylinder for umbrellas, and either a hook for keys or small table and dish for keys, etc. Whatever space you're working with, this kind of entry-way station will make life so much easier.
7. Rethink closet storage. Measure your shelves, pick up storage boxes, label them, and return to the closet. You will be amazed at how much space you will clear up by using this method.
8. Have a place for your mail and keep it organized. Different slots for different people or different purposes are helpful. Also, keep a recycle or trash can near this system to be easy access for junk mail.
9. Don't forget your friends in low places. Under the bed, chairs, couches, etc. are all, often untapped, storage locations. Rubber maid makes shallow boxes great for under beds, baskets and other decorative containers, are great for visible spaces. Do you use blankets in your family room? What about in the guest room? Keep them handy using these methods without taking up any additional space than what your furniture already does.
10. Finally, group like items. Use spatulas and spoons for cooking? Store them by your stove top all together. Get out of the shower and put on lotion, Q-tip your ears, and moisturize your face? Keep them all together and near the shower. Go with this principle on shelves, in pantries, or any other space and you will save time, space, and sanity.
These are just a few things I have learned in the effort to claim a little slice of lucidity. Hopefully they will help you too!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Give Someone a Miracle- Take a Photo the Means Something
An amazing author wrote , and I'm paraphrasing, photographers give the world a miracle. They allow others to see what few people see in life. And yet, we take this miraculous event for granted everytime we pick up a newspaper or magazine or browse our friends Facebook albums. But it is so true! You are not there to witness the miracle of the first steps or the front row at the Bare Naked Ladies concert, and yet you can see what the person behind the lens saw and understand the moment in time that was meaningful. And, do you ever notice, when you ask someone to explain the photo, they spend about 30 minutes telling you what happened leading up to it, or during it, or even after? There is a story behind every snap shot.
These are the things you should remember when you get behind the lens of your own camera, and argueably more importantly, behind the lens of a complete stranger. Although you may never see that picture again, you are giving this person the opportunity to remember and pass on this miracle. Don't tread on this lightly. And don't display it lightly, either!
Pictures are treasures and everyone should be proud of what theu captured. This is why being able to take a great picture is important, no matter who you are. And this ability all boils down to knowing your camera. Understanding all the buttons and programs will go a long way in getting the perfect shot. After you know your camera, get some editing software. Hint: all celebrities air brush and photoshop their pictures- this gives you license to do the same! No one is stunning at all times in every picture. A good photo editing program, and it doesn't have to be photoshop, will do wonders for you. Following the touch ups, print out on quality paper with a quality printer. If you don't have one or want to buy one, send them to Walgreens or Walmart- just check your order when you pick it up. This is important! If your pictures don't come out the way you want- they're fuzzy, out of focus, cut off weird, anything- you can give them back and they won't charge you for printing. Retouch and try again. No harm, no foul.
Here is where it gets interesting. This is how everyone is going to be touched by your vision of life. They are going to see life through your eyes and witness the miracle of your engagement or college graduation. Make sure this miracle is well framed. And this doesn't have to be traditional in a frame. Think out side the box and complement your images. Here are some really interesting suggestions I have heard recently:
~ Use a clear glass vase and fill with sepia-toned photos as a centerpiece.
~ Print your images in vellum paper in black and white and glue to a frame without the solid backing. Connect several frames using fabric glued to the back of the frames to create an enclosed circle. Bring the images to life with a candle on the inside. This is another great centerpiece.
~ On most editing and retouching software you can change images colors and styles. If you want to create a colorful, energetic space- use the Andy Warhol-style function, print on large paper and frame in a solid, black frame. Do you want to have a rustic, hand done feel? Try the sketch function and print on linen card stock.
~ What about cards and gift wrap? Add in clip art and text to make it personal and informal greetings.
So, think about these things when you pick your camera up next time. It is not about the "perfect shot" but more about being able to pass along the miracle of that moment to the people that matter to you. If you take this mindset on, your images will be more real and mean more, and therefore be so much better!
Happy shooting everyone! Have you ever done something creative with a photograph? Tell me about it!
These are the things you should remember when you get behind the lens of your own camera, and argueably more importantly, behind the lens of a complete stranger. Although you may never see that picture again, you are giving this person the opportunity to remember and pass on this miracle. Don't tread on this lightly. And don't display it lightly, either!
Pictures are treasures and everyone should be proud of what theu captured. This is why being able to take a great picture is important, no matter who you are. And this ability all boils down to knowing your camera. Understanding all the buttons and programs will go a long way in getting the perfect shot. After you know your camera, get some editing software. Hint: all celebrities air brush and photoshop their pictures- this gives you license to do the same! No one is stunning at all times in every picture. A good photo editing program, and it doesn't have to be photoshop, will do wonders for you. Following the touch ups, print out on quality paper with a quality printer. If you don't have one or want to buy one, send them to Walgreens or Walmart- just check your order when you pick it up. This is important! If your pictures don't come out the way you want- they're fuzzy, out of focus, cut off weird, anything- you can give them back and they won't charge you for printing. Retouch and try again. No harm, no foul.
Here is where it gets interesting. This is how everyone is going to be touched by your vision of life. They are going to see life through your eyes and witness the miracle of your engagement or college graduation. Make sure this miracle is well framed. And this doesn't have to be traditional in a frame. Think out side the box and complement your images. Here are some really interesting suggestions I have heard recently:
~ Use a clear glass vase and fill with sepia-toned photos as a centerpiece.
~ Print your images in vellum paper in black and white and glue to a frame without the solid backing. Connect several frames using fabric glued to the back of the frames to create an enclosed circle. Bring the images to life with a candle on the inside. This is another great centerpiece.
~ On most editing and retouching software you can change images colors and styles. If you want to create a colorful, energetic space- use the Andy Warhol-style function, print on large paper and frame in a solid, black frame. Do you want to have a rustic, hand done feel? Try the sketch function and print on linen card stock.
~ What about cards and gift wrap? Add in clip art and text to make it personal and informal greetings.
So, think about these things when you pick your camera up next time. It is not about the "perfect shot" but more about being able to pass along the miracle of that moment to the people that matter to you. If you take this mindset on, your images will be more real and mean more, and therefore be so much better!
Happy shooting everyone! Have you ever done something creative with a photograph? Tell me about it!
Friday, May 21, 2010
How to Not Fail in Life
This blog has been a lot about what I think and do, and this has done no one service. What this blog is supposed to be about is how to make your life easier- in home, cooking, life, and health. There have been several articles related to these topics, but nothing sums up the true nature of this lifestyle as this, "You can't fail if you never give up." Thanks to a friend on Facebook, this quote has been enlightening.
The application? Try new things, strive to be better every day, and you can't fail.
Here is an example. You want to be "more green" in your life. In an effort to change you have googled tips and tricks, but haven't been able to change much, just a few light bulbs and some cleaning supplies. Far from checking off the little boxes on your to-do list for a greener life. But here's the good news- you have made a difference. You made that difference the day you googled tips- or even you you first began thinking about this change. Every little step you take you are progressing- and as long as you don't give up on the desire to lead a greener life, you won't fail!
Or another- you want your home to look like a Pottery Barn catalog but have no money to make it work. This is no sweat! First, the catalogues are free so just go pick one up or sign up online to receive them in the mail. Find your favorite ideas and get to work. As long as you keep your inspiration pictures by your side when you're out shopping you won't go far away from what you want. You can't fail if you want it bad enough.
Apply this to all aspects of your life- from your job, to your family, your home, cooking, art, hobbies- and your the best!
Here is another quote for you though, "The inability to follow through on personal commitments is an outward expression of fear. Every time you have wanted to do something but have found yourself saying, 'there's just no time' it is really you being afraid of something."
You will always be afraid of something, and if you're a mom, you know what this feels like. how to tackle this? Put a name to it. Realize what you are afraid of. Is it rejection? financial loss? that people won't like you or your idea or your art? What ever it is, recognize it, justify your ideas versus your fears and determine if they are actionable fears. If you simply don't have any extra money and are thinking about getting plastic surgery, your fear of financial loss is founded and is more important than what you want. But, if you are a business-savy fashionista who has dreamed of opening up your boutique, you may not be founded in your fears. The ultimate financial gain could be so much greater!
Now that you know that you can't fail and how to deal with the fear of trying, what is stopping you from trying?
What is your dream or goal? how have you been doing? Do you have any fear holding you back from getting what you want? What's you plan for overcoming that fear?
The application? Try new things, strive to be better every day, and you can't fail.
Here is an example. You want to be "more green" in your life. In an effort to change you have googled tips and tricks, but haven't been able to change much, just a few light bulbs and some cleaning supplies. Far from checking off the little boxes on your to-do list for a greener life. But here's the good news- you have made a difference. You made that difference the day you googled tips- or even you you first began thinking about this change. Every little step you take you are progressing- and as long as you don't give up on the desire to lead a greener life, you won't fail!
Or another- you want your home to look like a Pottery Barn catalog but have no money to make it work. This is no sweat! First, the catalogues are free so just go pick one up or sign up online to receive them in the mail. Find your favorite ideas and get to work. As long as you keep your inspiration pictures by your side when you're out shopping you won't go far away from what you want. You can't fail if you want it bad enough.
Apply this to all aspects of your life- from your job, to your family, your home, cooking, art, hobbies- and your the best!
Here is another quote for you though, "The inability to follow through on personal commitments is an outward expression of fear. Every time you have wanted to do something but have found yourself saying, 'there's just no time' it is really you being afraid of something."
You will always be afraid of something, and if you're a mom, you know what this feels like. how to tackle this? Put a name to it. Realize what you are afraid of. Is it rejection? financial loss? that people won't like you or your idea or your art? What ever it is, recognize it, justify your ideas versus your fears and determine if they are actionable fears. If you simply don't have any extra money and are thinking about getting plastic surgery, your fear of financial loss is founded and is more important than what you want. But, if you are a business-savy fashionista who has dreamed of opening up your boutique, you may not be founded in your fears. The ultimate financial gain could be so much greater!
Now that you know that you can't fail and how to deal with the fear of trying, what is stopping you from trying?
What is your dream or goal? how have you been doing? Do you have any fear holding you back from getting what you want? What's you plan for overcoming that fear?
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Ricotta Gnocchi- A Great Dinner in About 20 Minutes- Add a Dinner Roll and You're Basically Italian!
A quick, easy recipe for you starch-lovers out there. I made this the other night and it was delicious! It was healthy-ish, heavy enough for dinner but light enough for before bed, and an amazing consistency- somewhere in between a dumpling and a twice-baked potato. Gnocchi is an Italian dish usually made with potatoes shredded and combined with a few ingredients. you can substitute the potato with ricotta cheese, which is what I did. You plop them in water and when they float, they're done! I threw them in a skillet with butter for a few minutes, tossed with a little ricotta and Parmesan cheese and dinner was done! Total time: 20 minutes.
Here is all that you need to know:
Ingredients:
1 1/2 Cup low fat ricotta cheese, + more for the sauce
1 Large egg yolk
1/3- 1/4 Cup Parmesan cheese, + more for the sauce
Lemon Zest
Salt
1 Cup All- purpose flour, + more for dusting
3-4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
To do:
~ Think about using a red sauce. A tasty marinara would be delicious.
~ Don't be afraid to add spices to the dough. When you are adding the flour, sift in spices with it. I was thinking about traditional Italian spices like oregano and thyme, but rosemary and garlic salts would be yummy too.
~Also, other cheese would be interesting. This could be the best mac n' cheese ever! Sharp Cheddar- white or yellow- would be delightful.
~ Add pine nuts and a light pesto- think outside the box.
~ This doesn't have to be a pasta-like meal. This could make an amazing starter. I'm seeing tooth picks inserted into each dumpling, with different infused oil sauces and interesting spices mixed into the dumpling, like cardamon and marjoram.
~ Go wild or stay safe- I read a great quote the other day, "you can't fail if you never stop trying." So get in the kitchen and try this out! Believe me, it's hard to mess up! Just don't over mix...
Here is all that you need to know:
Ingredients:
1 1/2 Cup low fat ricotta cheese, + more for the sauce
1 Large egg yolk
1/3- 1/4 Cup Parmesan cheese, + more for the sauce
Lemon Zest
Salt
1 Cup All- purpose flour, + more for dusting
3-4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
To do:
- Mix the cheeses, yolk, zest, and a pinch of salt. Sift (Or shake- it works well this way too. Or you can whisk before adding it. Just add air is the rule of thumb.) 1/2 Cup flour over the mixture. Use a rubber spatula to fold it together. Tip: Do not over mix this! Just until the flour is mostly absorbed is good.
- Turn the mixture out onto a floured surface. "Sift" the remaining 1/2 Cup flour over the dough and, using your fingers, mix it in gently- again, don't over mix.
- Bring a large pot of water to boil. I always sprinkle a little salt in the water to help this process along. Divide your dough into equal pieces. Roll these pieces out into a log about 1/2 inch thick. Tip: roll each piece into equal-thickness logs. This will help when they get in the pot. Use a knife or pan scraper to cut the logs into pieces- again, try to cut them equally thick so they cook evenly. (you can get fancy and score the tops of the pieces with a fork, knife, or indent with your fingers. If you want to you can or you can got my route and just let it look like it did when I cut it.)
- When the water is ready, drop the pieces into the pot. When they float, after about a minute or two, scoop them out with a slotted spoon or spider, and drain. Rinse them off and let drain some more. I set a colander over a bowl next to the pot for easy maneuvering. I even used the same bowl I used to mix the first step in. Hey, less dishes means a happier clean up, am I right?!
- While the dumplings are draining, heat a large skillet with 1/2 the butter (1 1/2- 2 Tablespoons). When it starts to sizzle and smells amazing, add the dumplings and don't touch them for a few minutes. You are browning them, so let them brown!
- After a few minutes, add the other 1/2 butter and toss to combine. I let them sit just a bit longer on the opposite side that had just browned to even out the color.
- Remove from heat, add as much ricotta and Parmesan as you deem necessary (I used about a 1/2 Cup ricotta and 1/3 Cup Parmesan), and dish up!
~ Think about using a red sauce. A tasty marinara would be delicious.
~ Don't be afraid to add spices to the dough. When you are adding the flour, sift in spices with it. I was thinking about traditional Italian spices like oregano and thyme, but rosemary and garlic salts would be yummy too.
~Also, other cheese would be interesting. This could be the best mac n' cheese ever! Sharp Cheddar- white or yellow- would be delightful.
~ Add pine nuts and a light pesto- think outside the box.
~ This doesn't have to be a pasta-like meal. This could make an amazing starter. I'm seeing tooth picks inserted into each dumpling, with different infused oil sauces and interesting spices mixed into the dumpling, like cardamon and marjoram.
~ Go wild or stay safe- I read a great quote the other day, "you can't fail if you never stop trying." So get in the kitchen and try this out! Believe me, it's hard to mess up! Just don't over mix...
Monday, May 17, 2010
Thrift Store Finds- Decorate Your House for Less
Shopping is addictive and I am a convicted addict. No matter where I go, if there is a small opportunity to shop, I am in it! This is where I found myself today. I happened to stop off at the D.I., the locally owned thrift store here in Utah, and decided to browse the selection since I had five minutes to spare. Wow! I was taken aback. I know I shop discount and second hand alot, but I don't normally go into Salvation Army-type stores. I have the idea that they are more trouble than they are worth since they sell anything, regardless of quality and condition, but sometimes it's worth it. Granted, the clothing and shoes were a bit much- and don't get me started about their 80's era electronics, but when it came to furniture, I almost whipped out my card and screamed, "I'll take it all!"
I'm talking solid wood, 20+ wine holder that stood about 4 feet high and 2 feet wide in relatively great condition. All it needed was a fresh coat of paint or a refinish. Guess how much I paid for it- $5! Not $30 or more, like I would have expected at an Antique store, but $5!!! I still can't believe it! There was also a beautiful out door set for $30, a solid wood table and benches for $30, and a few solid wood bed sets for only $50. I was floored and have completely changed my opinion of these types of stores. There were coat racks, end tables, entertainment units, benches, and amoires. Nothing was over $100. I'm a believer.
And, finally, it's a feel good too. I had bags of items to donate and I felt amazing while they were pulling my donations from the trunk. I have to admit, I felt even better watching them fill that empty space with my new wine rack! Whatever your reason for going, I would say it's worth the odd smell and out dated clothes.
Can you top my $5 wine rack find? I challenge you!
I'm talking solid wood, 20+ wine holder that stood about 4 feet high and 2 feet wide in relatively great condition. All it needed was a fresh coat of paint or a refinish. Guess how much I paid for it- $5! Not $30 or more, like I would have expected at an Antique store, but $5!!! I still can't believe it! There was also a beautiful out door set for $30, a solid wood table and benches for $30, and a few solid wood bed sets for only $50. I was floored and have completely changed my opinion of these types of stores. There were coat racks, end tables, entertainment units, benches, and amoires. Nothing was over $100. I'm a believer.
And, finally, it's a feel good too. I had bags of items to donate and I felt amazing while they were pulling my donations from the trunk. I have to admit, I felt even better watching them fill that empty space with my new wine rack! Whatever your reason for going, I would say it's worth the odd smell and out dated clothes.
Can you top my $5 wine rack find? I challenge you!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
The Algebra of Gift Giving: What + Who + You= Perfect Gift Giving
To continue on my thoughts of gift giving, I had a revelation. Maybe "revelation" isn't the best word, considering I had thought about it before yesterdays article. Epiphany may be what I am looking for. I was thinking about gift giving some more and was thinking about the advice I gave the other day. A co-worker of mine asked my advice about what kind of gift she could give someone who was helping her out. Since it was a unique situation I thought about it for a few minutes. Her situation didn't call for a grand gesture or home made goodies, but something more appropriate. This is when it hit me, gift giving isn't about you, or even them sometimes, but about the situation. After you consider the situation, next consider the person. Finally, think about yourself. Here is what you need to think about:
~ Is this a birthday? The holidays? Anniversary? House warming? Think about the circumstances, too. Are you moving in with a friend after a bad break up? Does the birthday party take place at a fancy night club in Las Vegas? All these factors will tell you how to strategize your gift giving. You need to match the occasion and circumstances.
~ Who are you giving this gift too? Is it your hippie sister? Your high-maintenance sister-in-law? What about your single, city-dwelling best friend? Who you give the gift too is one of the most important pieces in this gift giving equation. I can't give a second-hand item to my sister-in-law without adding something to it, however my sister would appreciate the thriftiness behind my special find.
~ Just because your relative is high-maintenance doesn't mean you have to break the bank or become less crafty than you have trained yourself to be! I am a firm believer in buying great quality and brands at low prices and not being taken over by the allure of pretty packages. Sure, I love holding a small silver bow from Nordstroms or a hot pink shopping bag from Betsey Johnson, but I can't bring myself to pay an arm and a leg for the product. Here is where you get crafty- don't pay full price and still get that status-symbol packaging. How? Buy the stuff on sale, second hand, at a discount store then make a special trip. Have you ever seen Breakfast at Tiffany's? If no, go right now and buy it- don't rent- BUY, and study. It is perfect. Anyways, there is a scene in there when Audrey Hepburn's character talks about how she goes to Tiffany's just to feel good, she doesn't buy anything. This is the kind of trip I'm talking about. Walk into that specialty store and browse around. Buy if you want, but this trip is meant to be free. Ask the sales clerk for the stores gift boxes and tissue, shopping bag, or whatever, and put that discounted item in it. Voila! High maintenance relative can kiss it! They think they're getting high end with a high price tag but really you just faked them out! HA!
And here's another idea: don't buy them anything. A simple thank you card (that, yes, you can make it yourself) with a sincere offer to help around their house, watch their kids, or sweat in their garden with them. Whatever you know they would appreciate help with or a break from, offer to take over it for a night, week, or, if a big favor, a month. This will not only be wallet friendly for yourself but much appreciated from the receiver.
So, long story short here: A little algebra for you, What + Who + You = Perfect gift giving. And if all fails, offer to help your gift-receiver out and you will win their heart.
Do you have a go to gift-giving trick you do? Is it similar to my epiphany? Let me know!
~ Is this a birthday? The holidays? Anniversary? House warming? Think about the circumstances, too. Are you moving in with a friend after a bad break up? Does the birthday party take place at a fancy night club in Las Vegas? All these factors will tell you how to strategize your gift giving. You need to match the occasion and circumstances.
~ Who are you giving this gift too? Is it your hippie sister? Your high-maintenance sister-in-law? What about your single, city-dwelling best friend? Who you give the gift too is one of the most important pieces in this gift giving equation. I can't give a second-hand item to my sister-in-law without adding something to it, however my sister would appreciate the thriftiness behind my special find.
~ Just because your relative is high-maintenance doesn't mean you have to break the bank or become less crafty than you have trained yourself to be! I am a firm believer in buying great quality and brands at low prices and not being taken over by the allure of pretty packages. Sure, I love holding a small silver bow from Nordstroms or a hot pink shopping bag from Betsey Johnson, but I can't bring myself to pay an arm and a leg for the product. Here is where you get crafty- don't pay full price and still get that status-symbol packaging. How? Buy the stuff on sale, second hand, at a discount store then make a special trip. Have you ever seen Breakfast at Tiffany's? If no, go right now and buy it- don't rent- BUY, and study. It is perfect. Anyways, there is a scene in there when Audrey Hepburn's character talks about how she goes to Tiffany's just to feel good, she doesn't buy anything. This is the kind of trip I'm talking about. Walk into that specialty store and browse around. Buy if you want, but this trip is meant to be free. Ask the sales clerk for the stores gift boxes and tissue, shopping bag, or whatever, and put that discounted item in it. Voila! High maintenance relative can kiss it! They think they're getting high end with a high price tag but really you just faked them out! HA!
And here's another idea: don't buy them anything. A simple thank you card (that, yes, you can make it yourself) with a sincere offer to help around their house, watch their kids, or sweat in their garden with them. Whatever you know they would appreciate help with or a break from, offer to take over it for a night, week, or, if a big favor, a month. This will not only be wallet friendly for yourself but much appreciated from the receiver.
So, long story short here: A little algebra for you, What + Who + You = Perfect gift giving. And if all fails, offer to help your gift-receiver out and you will win their heart.
Do you have a go to gift-giving trick you do? Is it similar to my epiphany? Let me know!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Having a Problem Gift-Giving? Think About This!
I know this may sound crazy at first, but I will tell it to you anyways. I am worried about Christmas presents this year! I know, it's only May, there's plenty of time, but hear me out. I am getting married this year on New Year's Eve. That doesn't give much time for Christmas celebrations- knowing all the planning and preparation needed before that week (We're doing a destination so we are making a week of it! Fun but a tad bit crazy!). And not only am I thinking about the timing but money as well. This is expensive!How am I going to buy presents and afford the kick-ass wedding I want? I have found it!
Today I was looking through my linen closet where I keep a stash of my books (Ran out of room on the book shelves) and it dawned on me. I have tons of fabric laying around and all these quilting and craft books, why not do home made this year? I wouldn't have to spend much money and I can just invest some time each night starting now and I should be set before the holidays role around, which is my goal. Here is the game plan:
1. Make Santa, angel, and Christmas tree bags using plain, brown lunch bags and snippets of fabric ironed on with adhesive to the bag. I'm thinking I may get a little crazy and use a needle and thread to stitch on the persons name to make it even more special.
2. Christmas cards= card stock and more fabric stereotypical characters. A black and white photo of the fam and a signature will do the trick!
3. Presents for the immediate family. I don't want to give away the surprise if they are reading this, but think fabric, sewing, and craftiness and you get the idea.
4. For other family and friends- home made from the kitchen is what I'm thinking. I plan on finishing my garden this weekend (Adding the veggies and fruits) and am hoping my green thumb will take on it's full color and I can use the fruits of my labor here. If not, my loved ones, please know that I tried and am now thanking God for Harmon's Grocery Store down the street.
The more I thought about this, the better the idea sounded. Why not do this all year long for gifts and presents for different occasions? Can you imagine showing up to a birthday party with a personalized wrapped present hand made by you? Talk about sentimental! And you can customize it to the person easily. Are they modern? Score the fabric shops for trendy fabrics and make them something cool- like a stunning table cloth or detailed cocktail napkins monogrammed with their initials. Are the shabby chic? Grab some old burlap, stitch on a name/saying/ shape of fabric and make a basket liner/ table cloth/ runner.
And price wise, this is easy! I began looking around at other things I have in my house that I could use, not just my fabric pile. I have old sheets, ruined table cloths, and even out dated clothes that I can think of a way to make it work. All it takes is a little time and attention to detail and you will stun them every time! And your gift will mean so much more than something store bought. You took this person into consideration, and spent a lot of time thinking about what they would like, and personalized it down to the disposable wrapping. That says a hell of a lot more than a store box tied off with a ribbon by the sales clerk.
So, think about this- do you want to spend the holidays stress-free from the worry of present giving, and relax confidently in front of the fire (real or on T.V.) knowing your gift is something that will mean something to your close friend or family member, and save TONS of money at the same time? If so, try out this idea and see what happens. The worst scenario- you buy them something for New Year's to make up for it (and with all the after Christmas sales, you'll still save money!)
Have you done something like this? Tell me about it!
Today I was looking through my linen closet where I keep a stash of my books (Ran out of room on the book shelves) and it dawned on me. I have tons of fabric laying around and all these quilting and craft books, why not do home made this year? I wouldn't have to spend much money and I can just invest some time each night starting now and I should be set before the holidays role around, which is my goal. Here is the game plan:
1. Make Santa, angel, and Christmas tree bags using plain, brown lunch bags and snippets of fabric ironed on with adhesive to the bag. I'm thinking I may get a little crazy and use a needle and thread to stitch on the persons name to make it even more special.
2. Christmas cards= card stock and more fabric stereotypical characters. A black and white photo of the fam and a signature will do the trick!
3. Presents for the immediate family. I don't want to give away the surprise if they are reading this, but think fabric, sewing, and craftiness and you get the idea.
4. For other family and friends- home made from the kitchen is what I'm thinking. I plan on finishing my garden this weekend (Adding the veggies and fruits) and am hoping my green thumb will take on it's full color and I can use the fruits of my labor here. If not, my loved ones, please know that I tried and am now thanking God for Harmon's Grocery Store down the street.
The more I thought about this, the better the idea sounded. Why not do this all year long for gifts and presents for different occasions? Can you imagine showing up to a birthday party with a personalized wrapped present hand made by you? Talk about sentimental! And you can customize it to the person easily. Are they modern? Score the fabric shops for trendy fabrics and make them something cool- like a stunning table cloth or detailed cocktail napkins monogrammed with their initials. Are the shabby chic? Grab some old burlap, stitch on a name/saying/ shape of fabric and make a basket liner/ table cloth/ runner.
And price wise, this is easy! I began looking around at other things I have in my house that I could use, not just my fabric pile. I have old sheets, ruined table cloths, and even out dated clothes that I can think of a way to make it work. All it takes is a little time and attention to detail and you will stun them every time! And your gift will mean so much more than something store bought. You took this person into consideration, and spent a lot of time thinking about what they would like, and personalized it down to the disposable wrapping. That says a hell of a lot more than a store box tied off with a ribbon by the sales clerk.
So, think about this- do you want to spend the holidays stress-free from the worry of present giving, and relax confidently in front of the fire (real or on T.V.) knowing your gift is something that will mean something to your close friend or family member, and save TONS of money at the same time? If so, try out this idea and see what happens. The worst scenario- you buy them something for New Year's to make up for it (and with all the after Christmas sales, you'll still save money!)
Have you done something like this? Tell me about it!
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Stock Your Kitchen With These Essentials and You'll Have a Better Looking, and Tasting, Meal
I am relatively new at cooking. About ten years ago I couldn't even make easy mac in the microwave. Now, after a lot of trial and error, I can confidently say I am a mediocre cook! Not advanced or professional by any stretch, but I think I make a mean pork chop and a delicious loaf of bread. There are some important things I learned along the way. One of which is to properly stock your kitchen. I used to think it was crazy to pay alot for pots and pans and cooking supplies. Toss away tins were just as effective as glass pans and there was no need for copper core fry pans when you could spend 1/10th the money on a colorful, cool looking alternative. Boy, was I wrong! The saying, "You get what you pay for." pretty much applies to cookware. I am not saying you need to buy a $1,000 set when going off to college and you can't even scramble and egg, but what I am saying if, if you like cooking and are decently good at it, it's worth the investment. The more you cook, the more you use the stuff, and the better stuff lasts longer, trust me!
But, what, you ask, should I have in my kitchen to cook with? Just walk into a cooking store like Sur La Table or William Sonoma and you will be overwhelmed beyond belief! Sure, the store people are helpful, but what do you really need? I have never made a bundt cake, but sure enough I ended up with one taking up valuable kitchen storage space. Here are my core suggestions on how to avoid this mistake:
1. A 10 inch non-stick skillet
2. A 12 inch skillet
3. A Dutch oven
4. A Large stock pot and lid
5. A Large saucepan
6. A Variety of stock pots and lids
After you get the core essentials add these items on:
1. A roasting pan and rack
2. A Wok
3. Cast iron skillet
When it comes to baking, here is what I built my kitchen around:
1. Muffin tins
2. Cookie sheets (I have two and find it is never enough!)
3. 9X5 loaf pan (Tin, glass, and silicon are great for different reasons, but if you're new to baking, any of these will do the trick.)
3. Rimmed baking sheets (Again, I have two and find I need more, but it works)
4. Wire cooling racks
And your additions:
1. Stoneware. I love Pampered Chef's stoneware. I use their pizza stone almost daily. I also have a shallow pan-like stone that works great too.
2. A spring-form pan is lovely for making cakes and pies. I barely use it since I haven't exactly mastered the art of cake baking yet, but I'm sure once I get better it will get more use.
3. A non-stick baking mat. This is my next purchase. It's used to line baking sheets instead of parchment paper. It's reusable so I therefore love it.
There is also the matter of the tools you need. Knives, spatulas, whisks- all are essential to a good looking, and tasting meal. But you don't have to buy every lobster claw breaker and lettuce knife you see. Here are my beginning supplies:
1. A box grater.
2. A metal colander. Don't do plastic- you're dumping steaming and boiling hot liquids in this thing. How does plastic melt? If you see this connection, you will invest in a metal one.
3. A Good cutting board. I prefer wood and thick. I don't care about if it's end grain or exotic, but if it's about 1 inch thick and wider than the length of your biggest knife. If you have space for it, the bigger the better! I have a dream of creating an entire counter out of thick wood that can be used for cutting.
4. Mixing bowls- Metal and glass. Don't bother with plastic, they don't last.
5. Ladle, slotted spoon, tongs, a flexible spatula, a metal spatula, a plastic spatula, and a whisk are essential utensils. I keep them all in a vase on the counter top so I can get to the all easily.
6. Don't forget a veggie peeler. I got one that hooks onto your finger and sits in the palm of you hand and am in love with the ease of it.
7. Measuring cups. The collapsible, stacking ones are good when considering space in your kitchen.
8. Pyrex has stacking liquid measuring cups that has a lid. I like them alot and my sister-in-law also swears by them.
Know, on to your knives:
1. Santoku- don't bother with a chef's knife if you get one of these. They work pretty much the same.
2. Paring- this is for small cuts you need to make.
3. Serrated bread knife- if you do make home made bread, or buy loaves not precut, this knife is essential. Don't bother buying it if you don't.
4. Kitchen shears- I really just use an old pair of craft scissors- but if you want to butterfly a chicken or open a package neatly, this is something that will come in handy.
5. A sharpening tool- there are a few options. I like the wheel kind. You hold it down with one hand and run the knife's blade through the wheel. Voila! Done in seconds.
These are what I have found, (In addition to picking up some tips from Martha Stewart and Williams Sonoma) over the course of 10 years,to be the best things to have in your kitchen. I didn't go out and buy it all at the same time. I replaced my crappy stuff when it needed it with something worthwhile. After I had replaced the core supplies, I began to branch out. The hard thing now? Not buying every little gadget out there! Sure they're cool, but where am I really going to store an herb shredder?
Hope this lengthy checklist will help you when you are beginning or just looking to stock your kitchen with what's worthwhile. Do you have something you can't live without in your kitchen not on my list? Let me know, I'm still learning!
But, what, you ask, should I have in my kitchen to cook with? Just walk into a cooking store like Sur La Table or William Sonoma and you will be overwhelmed beyond belief! Sure, the store people are helpful, but what do you really need? I have never made a bundt cake, but sure enough I ended up with one taking up valuable kitchen storage space. Here are my core suggestions on how to avoid this mistake:
1. A 10 inch non-stick skillet
2. A 12 inch skillet
3. A Dutch oven
4. A Large stock pot and lid
5. A Large saucepan
6. A Variety of stock pots and lids
After you get the core essentials add these items on:
1. A roasting pan and rack
2. A Wok
3. Cast iron skillet
When it comes to baking, here is what I built my kitchen around:
1. Muffin tins
2. Cookie sheets (I have two and find it is never enough!)
3. 9X5 loaf pan (Tin, glass, and silicon are great for different reasons, but if you're new to baking, any of these will do the trick.)
3. Rimmed baking sheets (Again, I have two and find I need more, but it works)
4. Wire cooling racks
And your additions:
1. Stoneware. I love Pampered Chef's stoneware. I use their pizza stone almost daily. I also have a shallow pan-like stone that works great too.
2. A spring-form pan is lovely for making cakes and pies. I barely use it since I haven't exactly mastered the art of cake baking yet, but I'm sure once I get better it will get more use.
3. A non-stick baking mat. This is my next purchase. It's used to line baking sheets instead of parchment paper. It's reusable so I therefore love it.
There is also the matter of the tools you need. Knives, spatulas, whisks- all are essential to a good looking, and tasting meal. But you don't have to buy every lobster claw breaker and lettuce knife you see. Here are my beginning supplies:
1. A box grater.
2. A metal colander. Don't do plastic- you're dumping steaming and boiling hot liquids in this thing. How does plastic melt? If you see this connection, you will invest in a metal one.
3. A Good cutting board. I prefer wood and thick. I don't care about if it's end grain or exotic, but if it's about 1 inch thick and wider than the length of your biggest knife. If you have space for it, the bigger the better! I have a dream of creating an entire counter out of thick wood that can be used for cutting.
4. Mixing bowls- Metal and glass. Don't bother with plastic, they don't last.
5. Ladle, slotted spoon, tongs, a flexible spatula, a metal spatula, a plastic spatula, and a whisk are essential utensils. I keep them all in a vase on the counter top so I can get to the all easily.
6. Don't forget a veggie peeler. I got one that hooks onto your finger and sits in the palm of you hand and am in love with the ease of it.
7. Measuring cups. The collapsible, stacking ones are good when considering space in your kitchen.
8. Pyrex has stacking liquid measuring cups that has a lid. I like them alot and my sister-in-law also swears by them.
Know, on to your knives:
1. Santoku- don't bother with a chef's knife if you get one of these. They work pretty much the same.
2. Paring- this is for small cuts you need to make.
3. Serrated bread knife- if you do make home made bread, or buy loaves not precut, this knife is essential. Don't bother buying it if you don't.
4. Kitchen shears- I really just use an old pair of craft scissors- but if you want to butterfly a chicken or open a package neatly, this is something that will come in handy.
5. A sharpening tool- there are a few options. I like the wheel kind. You hold it down with one hand and run the knife's blade through the wheel. Voila! Done in seconds.
These are what I have found, (In addition to picking up some tips from Martha Stewart and Williams Sonoma) over the course of 10 years,to be the best things to have in your kitchen. I didn't go out and buy it all at the same time. I replaced my crappy stuff when it needed it with something worthwhile. After I had replaced the core supplies, I began to branch out. The hard thing now? Not buying every little gadget out there! Sure they're cool, but where am I really going to store an herb shredder?
Hope this lengthy checklist will help you when you are beginning or just looking to stock your kitchen with what's worthwhile. Do you have something you can't live without in your kitchen not on my list? Let me know, I'm still learning!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Girls Night For as Little as $5 a Month- It Is Possible- I Swear!
Tonight was a first for me. I joined a bunco group and tonight was our first meeting. What a great time! Food, friends, games, and, best of all, wine! We spent the majority of the evening talking, getting to know each other, and figuring out how to actually play the game. For those of you unfamiliar with the game, it is a dice game that 12 people play. There are 4 people to a table, 3 tables, and 3 dice per table. The person sitting across from you is your partner. You roll the dice and pray to God you get the number you want. For instance, we started with 1. You roll the dice to try to get a 1 on at least 1 dice. If you do, you get 1 point, and roll again. You keep rolling until you don't get a 1. If you don't roll a 1, you pass to your left. You add your points with your partners point. When your group reaches 21 you win! There is a lot more that goes into it, but this gives you the gist of it.
The plan is this, there are 12 people who play. You play once month and each person takes a turn hosting the game at their house. Each player brings $5 to go in on the prizes handed out the the winners (for us, there are 3 prizes and one surprise gift sponsored from the hostess). This is the best part! Something fun to do, once a month, with your friends and only costs you $5. And, you only have to host the games once a year! Can you get any better than that!?
Here's how you can get your group together:
1. Think about all your close friends and family. I suggest keeping it an all girl party, but there is no reason boys can't join in the fun! How many do you come up with?
2. If you need more people in your group, ask those friends and family who they know that would be interested. There are 12 people on the regulars list but you will need alternates, since not everyone will be able to play every month for the whole year. I would go with at least 5 alternates to be on the safe side.
3. Once you get a good amount of people on your list, pick a day and time. Set up an email list and email your group to find out if the day and time work for them. For instance, we are playing every first Tuesday of the month at 7PM. Look at the course of a year and what days those are. Run the dates by the group and find out if they work for the majority of the regulars. If you lay out the exact dates for people you give them all a chance to consider things that may arise during the year at those times and allows plenty of time to move it around if need be. We had to move our next months meeting to a Wednesday so the majority could make it for this reason.
4. Figure out your price. We chose $5 per person per game. I've heard of $10, but I bet you could do more or less, whatever works for you. This gives the host $60 to buy gifts for the winners, if you go with $5 per person. With $60 you can have a lot of fun!
5. Think about your food and drinks too. Do you want the hostess to plan everything or do you want a potluck? Who's in charge of what, if you are doing a potluck? I love potlucks, especially since you can get as lazy and cheap as you want. Tonight I cut up lunch meat and cheese, stuck tooth picks in, and pretended like I was a culinary Garde Manger expert! Ha!
If you need to get out of the house and have a girls night , but are on a budget, this is the way to do it! Just a couple hours and $5 later, I have had a great night and can't wait to do it again!
Have you played this game? Are you on a team? What are your rules like?
The plan is this, there are 12 people who play. You play once month and each person takes a turn hosting the game at their house. Each player brings $5 to go in on the prizes handed out the the winners (for us, there are 3 prizes and one surprise gift sponsored from the hostess). This is the best part! Something fun to do, once a month, with your friends and only costs you $5. And, you only have to host the games once a year! Can you get any better than that!?
Here's how you can get your group together:
1. Think about all your close friends and family. I suggest keeping it an all girl party, but there is no reason boys can't join in the fun! How many do you come up with?
2. If you need more people in your group, ask those friends and family who they know that would be interested. There are 12 people on the regulars list but you will need alternates, since not everyone will be able to play every month for the whole year. I would go with at least 5 alternates to be on the safe side.
3. Once you get a good amount of people on your list, pick a day and time. Set up an email list and email your group to find out if the day and time work for them. For instance, we are playing every first Tuesday of the month at 7PM. Look at the course of a year and what days those are. Run the dates by the group and find out if they work for the majority of the regulars. If you lay out the exact dates for people you give them all a chance to consider things that may arise during the year at those times and allows plenty of time to move it around if need be. We had to move our next months meeting to a Wednesday so the majority could make it for this reason.
4. Figure out your price. We chose $5 per person per game. I've heard of $10, but I bet you could do more or less, whatever works for you. This gives the host $60 to buy gifts for the winners, if you go with $5 per person. With $60 you can have a lot of fun!
5. Think about your food and drinks too. Do you want the hostess to plan everything or do you want a potluck? Who's in charge of what, if you are doing a potluck? I love potlucks, especially since you can get as lazy and cheap as you want. Tonight I cut up lunch meat and cheese, stuck tooth picks in, and pretended like I was a culinary Garde Manger expert! Ha!
If you need to get out of the house and have a girls night , but are on a budget, this is the way to do it! Just a couple hours and $5 later, I have had a great night and can't wait to do it again!
Have you played this game? Are you on a team? What are your rules like?
Monday, May 10, 2010
Become a Recylce Artist This Spring
I like to think of myself as a green person- I try to buy organic and locally, recycle, and give back. I didn't realize what type of green person I was until yesterday. I was sitting at the dinner table with my fiance recapping our busy weekend when I started talking about all the projects I had completed lately. It hit me, I love being a recycle artist! In the three R's of going green most people don't think about reusing. There are so many things we throw away that could easily be used for something else, either for ourselves or others. For instance I painted a reproduction of a William Morris print on a cheap piece of shipping material. I coated it with polyurethane and it now hangs outside in my container garden. I followed it with an empty glass juice bottle filled with laundry detergent as a gift. Then I made my wine glass vase and yesterday I made a garden sign and trellis from a recalled baby gate I was supposed to throw away.
Think about this- what are you throwing away? Can you think of another way to use it? Or, are you heart broken throwing an old, broken item away? I felt wrong throwing away the recalled baby gate- it was good wood and could be used for something! Then the problem solving kicks in. What exactly can it be used for? What can you add or take away to make it work? The best thing is, you were going to throw it away anyways. If you mess it up, it's no big deal. Just toss it and pat yourself on the back for trying to do something good and fun. Bonus, you can get your kids, friends, or even love muffin involved in the creativity!
Spring is the perfect time to start this new train of thought. Clean out your closets and garage. Old clothes you don't wear anymore? Broken planting pots? Toss the stuff you don't think you can salvage and then sit down and start working. It's a puzzle and only you will find the way to put it all together.
Hopefully these pictures will inspire your creativity! (The purpose is to eventually cover the ugly fan that sits outside on our back porch. Use your imagination to see the flowing vines and fruitful produce plants in the pots. You can still garden when you can't dig in the ground- containers work great!)
Think about this- what are you throwing away? Can you think of another way to use it? Or, are you heart broken throwing an old, broken item away? I felt wrong throwing away the recalled baby gate- it was good wood and could be used for something! Then the problem solving kicks in. What exactly can it be used for? What can you add or take away to make it work? The best thing is, you were going to throw it away anyways. If you mess it up, it's no big deal. Just toss it and pat yourself on the back for trying to do something good and fun. Bonus, you can get your kids, friends, or even love muffin involved in the creativity!
Spring is the perfect time to start this new train of thought. Clean out your closets and garage. Old clothes you don't wear anymore? Broken planting pots? Toss the stuff you don't think you can salvage and then sit down and start working. It's a puzzle and only you will find the way to put it all together.
Hopefully these pictures will inspire your creativity! (The purpose is to eventually cover the ugly fan that sits outside on our back porch. Use your imagination to see the flowing vines and fruitful produce plants in the pots. You can still garden when you can't dig in the ground- containers work great!)
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