An imaginary conversation between Bella and Edward Bella: "Oh, Edward…" Edward: "Yes Bella?" Bella: "Why does it always seem like there's something keeping us apart? My Dad, my friends, Jacob, Victoria, the Volturi… plastic packaging (sigh)." Edward: "Oh Bella… You're such a doll." Finally made it to "New Moon" this weekend. I have to admit there were a few instances of teenage angst that cracked me up. But overall, it was fun to see. My friends and I were equally divided on Team Jacob/Team Edward. But we're all "Team Michelle." Michelle has a new blog post up today. She… Read More
When Popcorn met Bacon: A Taste Sensation
Image from J & D Foods "Hear the Pop. Taste the Sizzle." -Product Slogan We snacked on BaconPOP (bacon flavored popcorn) today and let me tell you– we were NOT disappointed. Here are some reviews (from my family): "Love It" – Max, age 7 "Yummy" – Mia, age 4 "Bacon-y good, not too strong, subtle… delicious." – Neal, grown-up Doubtful? I was once a doubter too. Until I tried another product from this company: Baconnaise. It's a combination of mayo and bacon and it's SO good. Other products include bacon salt, bacon ranch dip and mmmvelopes. Image from… Read More
December Daily 2009: Just add words + pictures
My December Daily 2009 is underway– well at least there's the makings of it. So far I am caught up to (drum roll) Day 2… but I have been keeping track of what's been going on and saving bits and pieces from each day. Here it is: Two things I am into this year: burlap and mists. Either Maya Mist or Glimmer Mist! Can't seem to get enough of either one. For the cover I painted some chipboard with Making Memories paint in Red Wagon. The paper is also Making Memories. The Noel Bingo card is from Jenni Bowlin. I sewed some random… Read More
Evening 5 of the Festival of Lights
Even though I have been participating in Hannukah for about a dozen years, I still feel like a novice. Especially when left to my own devices. My reference guide to "The Festival of Lights" is a tiny eighteen page book entitled: "The Complete Guide to Hanukkah." Did I mention this is a children's book? All I can say is thank you, Susan Fischer Weis (the author) for writing something so concise that even a shiksa like me can handle Hannukah. I lit the candles and did the Blessings in Hebrew (thanks to my handy little book). Fortunately, my kids… Read More
31 Ways to Celebrate the Season: Part One
I just love this month. There is so much to do, see and eat. Being at home with the people you love is pretty fun too. Here are a few ideas: 1. Go Ice Skating. If you live near Bellevue, Washington check out this seasonal ice skating rink. 2. Make popcorn balls. 3. Make a garland with construction paper. Use staples to save time. Instant cheer! 4. Tune to WARM 106.9 on your car radio. They play "Continuous Christmas Favorites". Belt out those holiday songs and enjoy embarrassing your kids passengers. 5. Speaking of music, find the words… Read More
Sugar Cone Trees
Love the concept of making a Gingerbread House but lack the time or patience? Miss Mia to the rescue! Instead of baking the gingerbread yourself (or buying a kit which is what I do), all you need is a package of sugar cones, some green royal icing, and candy/fruit loops. See where this is going? Use the royal icing to cement the ice cream cone to a paper plate. Add as much candy and as many fruit loops as possible. Note: For every piece of candy you put on your "tree," put an equal amount of candy in your… Read More
All we want for Hannukah & Christmas
Max Update: He is very close on reaching all three of the goals he needs to accomplish to order to get out of the "Red Zone" and into the "Yellow Zone." The Yellow Zone will mean he gets to to do more activity and that he is officially out of the scary danger zone. We are working towards getting to the "Yellow Zone" by Christmas. His Physical Therapist, Ly, thinks he will make it. We're so excited. This was Max this morning at 7 am. His leg is at about an 85 degree angle. Once he gets to 90… Read More
A simple craft for the holidays
I saw this cuteness the other day at my favorite department store: Since I am a hoarder person who sees potential in items that could also be considered recycling, I decided to try and make my own version. I had some old perfume bottles. Since they've been in my closet since 2001 (perfume included) I didn't feel badly about dumping the contents out. I also save those little bottles of vanilla extract as I go through them. Here's what I came up with: Supplies Needed: I've learned the best investment you can make in terms of being able to remove… Read More
Hey Cookie!
Up for a sweet treat? This recipe makes so many cookies, there will be enough for you to give away and still have plenty for yourself. My sister-in-law Kelly shared this recipe for Butter Cookies with me a few years ago. It's been my "go to" holiday cookie recipe ever since. Here it is: Kelly's Butter Cookies 1 cup butter 2 eggs 1/2 tsp lemon extract 1/2 tsp vanilla 1 cup granulated sugar 1 tsp cream of tartar 2 1/2 cups of flour 1/2 tsp baking soda Cream butter. Add sugar and beat well. Add beaten eggs, then all remaining… Read More