Party Party Party

The Holidays bring about a spirit of festive parties. My own personal theme this year has been less is
more. Believe me this is not easy for me. If hosting a holiday party stick with a few of you absolute
favorite things to make. Perhaps do just a dessert party and offer 2 or 3 different goodies with some Stilton Cheese and a glass of Port. You don't need an overwhelming amount of food. And always remember
the table setting always makes the food and drink taste better. An most important, don't make it so you
are overwhelmed before the party starts. You want to enjoy yourself as well!!!!

For someone who has everything

Every holiday season holds the task of finding that one gift....for that someone who has everything and believe me it can become overwhelming. I recently came across this find and had to share. For the woman who has everything...pencils with Swarovski Crystals......

Setting the Table

When you prepare an amazing meal, you must remember that setting the table is part of what makes the meal taste even better. Votive candles always offer an enchanting glow. Remember not to make the items on your table too tall. You want to see each other while you talk. And always remember less is more so don't over crowd your table.

Summertime

The summer has slipped through my fingers like sand. Plenty of activities and life changing events put my cooking on the back burner. Pardon the pun.
Becoming a grandmother has to be one of the most amazing experiences in my life. People tell you it is so special, but until you experience it for yourself you just can't understand what it feels like. My Lilly was welcomed into the world on August 6th and her Daddy did make it home from Afghanistan in time. Blessing all around.

Now as summer draws to a close and we are preparing for my daughter and granddaughter's move, I am back to thinking about cooking. After they leave I will have plenty of time on my hands. My first creation is going to be a cheesecake. Not just any cheesecake but one with a spice cookie crust. Been thinking about this for a while and ready to give it a go. Will post recipe very soon....

Time to play

During the lazy days of summer, create and try some new recipes. There is so much to try. I have been trying my hand at making homemade breads and am a bit surprised at how easy it is. Not only is it easy it is so inexpensive to make your own bread. Take a recipe and think outside the box. Use it as a blue print and think about what you really like and throw it in. I have posted the first successful bread recipe. Next I am going to add a bunch of different herbs and see how that goes. Then a puff pastry rolled like cinnamon buns. Oh the possibilites are endless. Let me know if you come up with something!!! I will be posting the recipes as I go ; )

Kitchen

Every home has a heart, the place where families comes together. For our family, it is our kitchen. It's not that big but we all gather here at least once a day to enjoy a meal together, cook, have a cup of coffee, chat, listen and connect. Taking time to create a wonderful meal is just another way of showing how much you love your family. Taking time to use linen napkins, light a candle and don't use paper plates. Treat this time together as a celebration. I have always admired how meals are prepared and served in other countries. They sit at the table for hours just enjoying each other. All too often we are quickly rushing through a meal. So surprise your loved ones and make a wonderful meal, bring out special china and light a candle. Enjoy each other. Time together is a gift.

World Ocean Day, June 8th

Kids are so darn smart!!!

Celebration

Life is about celebrating Love....today we celebrated my Mom and Dad's 50th Wedding Anniversary. They were surround with their family that loves them so very very much.
Celebrate everything in life and never let it pass by

Friends are like stars in the sky, keeping the light in life even when it seems you are in the dark.

Beach

It's almost here!!! The long weekend it quickly approaching. After the longest winter
here in the Northeast, the official start of summer is around the corner. Time to head
to the Jersey Shore and relax in the sun.

Chocolate

At the end of a long long week.....indulge yourself, you
deserve a treat. The power of chocolate is not to be
underestimated. Relax enjoy each bite let go of the
past week. Hope everyone has a beautiful weekend.

So true so true

And absolutely worth every minute!!!

Oh my my my

You need to cruise on over to everyday musings for this recipe
what could be better
SMore Brownies

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Spezify a media cloud that can't be beat!

Belle of the Kitchen: Whatever you do...

Belle of the Kitchen: Whatever you do...

Monday Monday

The week ahead offers nothing but new adventures
and exicting roads to choose. Find your passion and
take off.

Technology 4.26.10

Google Squared is an amazing tool. Each day offers a new window into what is possible.

Some words of wisdom for a Monday.

Life offers beautiful surprises everyday. Be on the look out and think positive thoughts. You will notice a lot more each day!

For the love of outdoors....
Here on the East Coast Easter was a glorious day filled with renewal and promise. It is a wonderful thing to create traditions for the younger generation. It gives them a sense of connection to those who love them. Here we are having fun with flower races. Create a tradition for your family, no matter how small or how grand, they are going to remember!!!

Why

The reason this blog started was to teach myself how.....as it turns out, my daughter will be moving away. This will offer her a place to find home in the world.