I’ve got that beginning-of-the-year buzz and clutter better watch out! Instead of resolving to a general, “keep life organized”, I’m tackling specific problem areas in my house…starting with the playroom. The kids’ playroom is often a room I’d rather just shut the door to then deal with the mess. I’m thrilled the girls and their […]
As great as 2011 was, I’m always excited by the possibilities a new year brings. There’s something about that “blank canvas” feel…a fresh start! This year, I’ll be hosting a party with my nearest and dearest to ring in 2012. To get the conversations flowing before dinner, I’m going to set the table with these fun […]
New Years Eve is a time for remembering the year gone by, looking forward a fresh start and celebrating the here and now. I don’t know about you, but I like to do this over a plate of appetizers and a fun drink. Whether you’re hosting a big bash or a family game night, create a […]
The day after a holiday is usually a time to rest, recover, and relax. But when you’re traveling, you don’t have that chance to recharge before the commute home. For the day-after travelers with kids this winter season, I say…have a plan of attack. Pack up the games, the activities, and, of course, the snacks! […]
There’s a lot to plan for when you’re hosting over the holidays. Whether it’s a meal for intimate friends, your extended family, or a group of people who are just meeting, I’ve got a few tips that will allow you to keep things low-stress so that you can enjoy all your preparation. Make it flow. […]
This Christmas, take a classic dessert flavor and make something new, easy and delicious. I’m all about the shortcuts: use store-bought ice cream for your ice cream pie or gingerbread cookie mix for the gingerbread cheesecake bites. It still counts as homemade in my book! Here are 5 quick and easy recipes to dress up […]
Beets: a misunderstood veggie that seems to split a group into two camps…the lovers and the haters. To me, there are few vegetables sweeter, prettier and tastier than the sliced beet. You cannot go wrong serving them with a soft cheese, such as goat or blue cheese, and a simple vinaigrette. Let’s hear it for […]
Still shopping? Pick up affordable, stylish and gotta-have-it last minute gifts your might need from Katie Brown at Meijer. We’ve got great stocking stuffers, plus gifts for the in-laws, the college kid and your great aunt… Clockwise from top: Set of 3 Ceramic Mixing Bowls 14.99 Silver Snowflake Glass Ornament 4.00 11-in Gray Snowbird Decoration […]
With gifts to wrap, stockings to hang, and Christmas cookies to bake, tabletop decor for your holiday meal can easily be overlooked. But you don’t need to buy a bunch of supplies or expensive flowers to make a beautiful holiday table. Collect bits of nature, reuse garden supplies and delve into the candy drawer to […]
Do you ever feel like you could make a meal out of all the yummy side dishes at a holiday dinner? In my family, we look forward to the favorite green bean casserole and cheesy potatoes at every Christmas Eve. We rotate in the other vegetable dishes and make sure there’s a basket of warm and flakey […]