And The Oscar Goes To…

March 8th, 2010 § 1 comment

Good Morning Dear Reader:roses5

This morning I am admittedly suffering from a hangover–an Oscar hangover. There is something about the Oscars that makes me want to stay up to the very last credit. My mother loved movies and followed the stars in old movie magazines and I am sure some of that is embedded in my DNA as well.

Last night did not disappoint me, except I really felt that Avatar was slighted by the voters. Maybe they resented the obscene amount of money that Avatar has earned that  has made it the highest grossing picture, ever. Maybe they just don’t like James Cameron and thought giving the Oscar to his ex-wife would really drive the point home. No matter, it has raised the bar on what can be accomplished on screen. It has special effects no one has ever done before and it took 10 years to do it.

I heard a commentator say that the best picture of any year isn’t revealed until significant time passes and we can look back and see which ones stand up and which ones are forgotten. That being the case, I am wondering where is the Oscar for Christmas Vacation? I predict that Avatar will last because it speaks to people of all ages and can be viewed by families, together, which is such a rarity.

Last night, there were really no dressing disasters that I could see. Oh, some stars got a bit carried away with the ruffled look, but everyone played it safe and there was so much “old glamour”. Kate Winslet was just simply exquisite.roses3

The “knocked it out of the park” star was Queen Latifah. She was just gorgeous in a fitted lavendar gown accented with a band of rhinestones that wrapped over one shoulder.Queen Latifah perfected illustrated the principle to celebrate what you have, don’t bury it in a caftan. She looked fabulous and she knew it. She just glowed!

Of the young, up and coming stars, Miley Cyrus looked about 30 and was accompanied by her mother who showed off her own tattoos across her back. It is only a matter of time…

On the other hand, there was the lovely Anna Kendrick, Oscar-nominated for her role in Up in the Air with George Clooney. She was so lovely in a pale pink draped chiffon gown, just off the shoulders and Gabourey Sidibe, both so appropriately dressed and elegant.

Cameron Diaz has been dressing so much better lately, and last night was no exception. She looked completely like a star in a glittery gown with the best hair, ever. Okay, she could have had hair extensions, but she was just beautiful. I want hair extensions!

The movie I want to see now is An Education with Carey Mulligan. She has received so many kudos on her performance and talent.

Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin made a great comedy team, with some really funny barbs, especially at the multi-nominated Meryl Streep, with whom they both starred in It’s Complicated. If you haven’t seen it, do. It is delightful.

Fashion note to Barbra Streisand: Next time you go out for a lobster dinner before presenting at the Oscars, please have someone remove your big doily-style bib.

Have a wonderful day!!bouquet

Diane

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It’s a Beauty Round-Up!

March 6th, 2010 § 1 comment

Good Morning Dear Reader:IMG_1912_2

It’ s only one more day until the Oscars and we will have have some incredibly beautiful dresses to talk about and some absolutely horrible ones to ask , “What were they thinking?”. The amazing thing to me is that all the A- and even the B-List celebrities have stylists and for many cost is not an issue because the gowns are loaned by designers anxious to get their names mentioned.  Unfortunately, taste and fame are not synonomous.

I’ve Shopped For You!

I stopped in at the MAC counter in Dillard’s to Try their new Plush Lash Volumateur ET Recourbant ( which means it gives you really, really fat eyelashes) $13. Allure Magazine recommended it, so you know it must be good! The precious Molly at MAC had many great products to recommend as part of their new clinical testing program which evaluates the success of it’s products.

I spared no expense to hire a high-priced male model to showcase these new beauty products.

I spared no expense to hire a high-priced male model to showcase these new beauty products.

Molly swears by the new long-lasting lipsticks, Prolong Wear which last a full 8 hours. I am going on hour 4 and after a Chick-Fil-A sandwich and drink, it’s still going strong. There is a new liquid eye liner which promises to deliver 12 hours of beautiful eyes, Penultimate Eyeliner, $16.50.

I tried the new Pre+Prime Line Filler which promises at least a 78% improvement in the firmness and the look of lines and wrinkles (87%). Unfortunately, it did not come in the gallon size and I had to settle for .05 ounces for $19.50.

Two facts I did not know about MAC that greatly impressed me–first, they have their own AIDS Fund, www.macaidsfund.org and 100% of the profits of special lipsticks go to it . Second, return 6 used MAC plastic cosmetic containers to a store and they will give you a free lipstick and recycle the plastic. Now, that’s a good thing!

Some Pretty Cool Jewels

I loved these!

I loved these!

I haven’t shopped at J.C. Penney’s in a while and when I stopped in, I found some really adorable costume jewelry that looks muh more expensive than it is. These two collar style necklaces were regularly $24 and are now 25%  off. The gold one also comes in silver and looks like sterling.

They have a line of precious sterling jewelry that has been reduced drastically and would make great gifts for girl’s birthdays, graduation or for any special occassion. The little braided bracelets with the sterling charms retail for $35 and are now $12.

Darling gifts, greatly reduced & sterling!

Darling gifts, greatly reduced & sterling!

As you know by now, Dillard’s is letting much of the fall inventory go at 70% off.  While browsing in the shoe department, I saw these shoes and just fell completely in love. I said, “I want those shoes?”.  When I got a good look at the heel I realized that while I could buy them, the only use I will get out of them is if use them to hold a bottle of wine or to consolidate my exploding plastic bag collection.

So pretty, so much pain!

So pretty, so much pain!

As I was leaving the mall, I saw one of those kiosks where you can buy extra hair, if you need some, so of course I stopped!

I'll take the hair, but I think I'll pass on the contact lens!

I'll take the hair, but I think I'll pass on the contact lens!

Have a simply lovely Saturday and come back soon!

Diane

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Pantry–0, Walmart–10

March 4th, 2010 § 0 comments

Good Morning Dear Reader:

Walmart's in bloom!

Walmart's in bloom!

Yesterday, I had every intention of really tackling my pantry, until I opened the door and looked in. There appeared to be a great potential for an avalanche. There I was with no one else at home, no safety equipment–helmet, ropes, breathing device and bullet-proof vest (there are some pointy things in there). I realized that a project of this magnitude requires much more preparation than I had anticipated. So I decided to go to Walmart instead.

Lucky for you that I did. I discovered some great new products, saw some strange things, and decided I would not be buying any of Miley Cyrus‘ new line of clothing they are carrying.

I initially decided to go to Walmart (besides that pantry-cleaning avoidance thing) to buy Resveratrol Juice, which I wrote about earlier. I found it in the dairy case with other juices. It comes in a large 64 ounce bottle for just under $7 and in small ten ounce bottles in Acai, Berry, and Goji. Calorie-wise, they are from 110 to 130 and loaded with vitamins. Last night I tried the Goji and it is delicious. The Berry has concord grape, red grape, white grape, pomegranate, cranberry, blueberry juices which are all great health boosters. Maybe it will fortify me enough to tackle the pantry!m&m's

I could not believe there is nearly one entire aisle devoted to chocolate! And it isn’t just like Hershey bars or Kit Kats. It is all gourmet, including these amazing m&m’s that are beautifully packaged with multi-layers of chocolates, some with blueberry, mint, white and dark chocolate, etc. They also have a huge selection of gourmet, imported dark chocolate bars–excellent for good health! I am impressed.Cheerios

AsI write this I am sipping my morning coffee and nibbling on my new favorite, healthy snack–Chocolate Cheerios. I wouldn’t be serving this to the kiddies for breakfast, but as a snack food, it scores. Three-fourths of a cup is only 100 calories and has 1 gram of fat, 1 gram of fiber, and guess what? It may reduce the risk of heart disease! Well, I wouldn’t depend on Chocolate Cheerios alone to improve your heart health, but as a snack food or after dinner dessert, it’s not a bad choice and it’s tasty!

They look a little like something the rabbit might have left.

They look a little like something the rabbit might have left.

Yesterday on the Today Show, I saw an important alert for parents of small children who play with the rubber squirt toys in their bath. Unless these toys are cleaned regularly with a Clorox-type product they can harbor harmful bacteria like eboli. It is impossible to remove all moisture from them and the bacteria loves a moist environment and flouishes.

Sunday is the Oscar’s and it should be quite a night with Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin hosting. If you haven’t seen the movies nominated, you still have a little time. Today’s Houston Chronicle has reviews written for each of the 10 nominated for best picture and why that picture should win. I particularly liked the review for Avatar. the reviewer compared it to Dances With Wolves in outer space. I can’t say that I disagree. I thought it was amazing.

A bit past their prime, but beautiful nonetheless!

A bit past their prime, but beautiful nonetheless!

Have a wonderful day!

Diane

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I’m Having A Fan Moment!

March 3rd, 2010 § 0 comments

Good Morning Dear Reader:Tulips1

I must tell you that I am all atwitter ( not as in Twitter) but as in “thrilled”) ! I received a lovely comment on yesterday’s blog by two of the brightest and best out there (no it isn’t Brad and Angelina)–Joe and Terry Graedon, The People’s Pharmacy! They wrote to thank me for mentioning their column and their advice about nosebleeds. They also clued me in that dropping cold keys down the back of your shirt can work as well. Who knew?

After their kind note, I had to visit their Web site to see what other great bits of common sense medicine was there. I wish I had the space here to tell you all the different diseases, health issues, emergency medications–many that respond to natural home remedies, that are dealt with on their site. You have to visit it for yourself. banana

Just a few teasers:  Black pepper for healing cuts, celery seed extract for gout, Archway Coconut Macaroon Cookies for diarrhea (and Crohn’s Disease), and you won’t believe what all  a banana peel can do!! Before you pop another pill for a pain or ache, visit their Website and see if there is a natural remedy–www.peoplespharmacy.

Avoid Buying a Lemon

The newest issue of Consumer Reports is out on the news stands and it is the annual auto issue which examines and evaluates pretty much every 2010 car on the market. What is just as valuable is how it rates used cars (and pinpoints trouble spots) of every brand, which can be very helpful if you are in the market for one.

Look Your Best At Any Size!

When shopping for a car, don't buy one of these!

When shopping for a car, don't buy one of these!

There’s a clever new book on the market which I am sure will be a best-seller, How to Never Look Fat Again: Over 1,000 Ways to Dress Thinner–Without Dieting! by Charla Krupp. You may remember Charla as the author of How Not to Look Old: Fast and Effortless Ways to Look 10 Years Younger, 10 Pounds Lighter, 10 Times Better . She has some great tips which include re-evaluating your wardrobe and if it is too bright a color or too loose, let it go. She recommends looking  for dark, solid clothing with clean, simple lines.

She says don’t hide in your clothes because big shirts and baggy pants only give you an overall “blob” look. Invest in a good bra and shapewear, like Spanx. She admits that she is fatter than ever, but dieting isn’t always the answer. Fake it with the right wardrobe.

A Smile A Day…Will Allow You To Get Out Of Bed!

I must recommend a precious, funny book that never fails to make me laugh, 0 to Bitch in 10 Seconds or Less: Quips and Comebacks for Quick-Witted Women by Amy Hatch. Sometimes we need a little help getting back on keel and Amy has the medicine. Just a couple of my favorite:

“I have enough money to last me the rest of my life, unless I buy something”–Jackie Mason

“I hate to spread rumors, but what else can you do with them?”–Amanda Lear

“I’ve been fortunate–I haven’t had too many auditions. I slept with all the right people.”–Pamela Anderson

I am thinking of reorganizing my pantry today, but I am unsure if I have sufficient survival skills to make it out in one piece. There are things in the back of the shelves that haven’t seen the light of day in years. If I’m not back blogging tomorrow, send help.Hydrangea

Have a fabulous day!

Diane

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The Last Word on Bachelor Jake!

March 2nd, 2010 § 2 comments

Good Morning Dear Reader:

These roses are for you!

These roses are for you!

I will only comment briefly about The Bachelor because not everyone is a fan. The next time Jake returns to the hangar, it will be to fly his private jet. The boy has his eyes on a Hollywood career and judging from his acting, he’s got talent. He even had me believing he might choose Tenley. His romantic declarations sounded so sincere, plus he can cry on cue.

His lovey behavior with Vienna was a little too over the top last night to be real. Now that he is going to be on Dancing With the Stars, consider his star to be on the rise. Melissa Rycroft did it successfully and is now a regular commentator on E and other sites.  Poor Vienna, who America has never thought was good enough for Jake, is going to be history. He has his sites set on bigger fish.

Stop Nosebleeds…

I am a huge fan of Joe and Teresa Graedon, The People’s Pharmacy syndicated columnists. This week in their column they note that many readers have written with a successful method of stopping nosebleeds. “Determine which nostril is bleeding, remove the shoe from the opposite foot, and with the heel of your hand, give two good thumps to the heel of the bare foot. They say drugstore remedies include Nosebleed QR, NasalCEASE, and Seal-On.

In the same column they note that 1,000 mg. of vitamin B-12  taken for 6 months helps decrease the incidence of painful mouth ulcers. Dr. Oz recommends eating yogurt with live cultures everyday, which also gives you a good dose of calcium, and aids in digestion. L-Lysine supplements have worked for other readers.

Marc Jacobs Gets FitBlueberries

We all know that Marc Jacobs is one of the hottest fashion designers around, but now he has focused his attention on his own body with a healthier diet and exercise plan. One of the secrets he swears by is an antioxidant drink, Resveratrol Juice. It is bottled in Austin by Genesis Today. The drink contains Japanese knotweed, grapes and pomegranate and there is 50 mg. of resveratrol, an antioxidant,  in every 8 0unces. You can find it at Walmart as well as their Acai and Goji juices, $7 for 4 oounces.

Just Released Today!

I love Lisa Kogan who writes for Oprah Magazineand today her first book will be released today and I know it will be a hit. She writes with deadpan wit about motherhood, relationships and politics. The book is called, Someone Will Be with You Shortly: Notes from a Perfectly Imperfect Life, published by HarperStudio. In her column this month, she relates her attempt to get a Brownie badge after 40 years–hilarious!

Attractive boxes from Home Goods can hide a lot of stuff!

Attractive boxes from Home Goods can hide a lot of stuff!

The entire March issue of Oprah Magazine is devoted to de-cluttering your life. Isn’t that what we all want and need? But how do it do it? The best advice I have read on the subject is to devote 15 minutes a day to one small drawer, corners, shelf, etc. that needs de-cluttering. Do the task in small bites. Drawers can be rearranged while talking on the phone–just not the silverware drawer–way too noisy!

More Good News About Chocolate!

The dark is the healthiest!

The dark is the healthiest!

A new study in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermtology reports that eating antioxidant-rich dark chocolate can increase your skin’s natural UV ray protection.  Eat little bits over the course of the day when you are exposed to the sun–eat fast, that stuff melts!!! I never doubted that anything that tastes so good can be good for you!!! Eat up!

Have some chocolate today!Azalea

Diane

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I Have a Bachelor Theory

February 28th, 2010 § 0 comments

Good Morning Dear Reader:

I collected these girls in Antigua!

I collected these girls in Antigua!

I don’t collect things. I collect people. Not only are they more fun, you never have to dust them.

I believe that if we weren’t so afraid to engage our fellow passengers in conversation on airplanes, we might make new friends, learn things about cities where they live and travel and get a clue if someone next to us was carrying an incendiary device in his underwear. (Hint: he would not be sharing his recipe for guacamole.)

In yesterday’s post I shared some of the great ideas about using color from Better Homes and Gardens March issue.  Page 65, “30 Tips & Tricks for Choosing and Using, and Loving Color” really clarified for me how to pull a room together by using color in different ways–like:

#4 “Follow the rule of three. When you pick a color, use it at least 3 times in a room.”

# 21–In a small room, keep the walls the same color as the primary upholstered furniture. The room will seem twice the size.”

Did I mention the Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake recipe on page 179? If you make the cheesecake then you can have Blackened Chicken with Avocado Salsa (heart-healthy) for dinner, page 160.

Are you watching The Bachelor? Tonight is the finale and word on the street is that Jake will propose to Vienna (former Hooter’s girl that all the other girls have dished).

My theory is that Jake, who is one of the brightest and most likeable bachelors ever, decided he didn’t want to marry any of the girls and yet he didn’t want to have America hate him by ditching a doll like Ally or sweet Tenley. Therefore, he proposes to Vienna, enjoys a lovely pre-wedding honeymoon and then ditches her, to which America says, “Thank goodness, Jake came to his senses!”. Time will tell.

My junk will look so pretty in these organizers!

My junk will look so pretty in these organizers!

Target, how do I love thee? Every time I go in Target, I find something new I can’t live without! I swear this is the year that I am going to finally get everything organized in my closets and Target’s really pretty basket organizers just inspire me!

Michael Graves, who has put the most clever spin on everyday household objects, like the beautiful tea kettle and toasters at Target has designed the most clever can opener and

It flattens and pops open!

It flattens and pops open!

rectangular colander that fits over the sink, and collapses for easy storage.

It's a pretty can opener!

It's a pretty can opener!

If you are like me, you have been stumped trying to figure out how to accessorize your St. Patrick’s Day outfit. You will be relieved to know that Target has green boas and green felt cowboy hats–so Texas. What I loved were the great socks and tights–a sure hit at your office or school.

I want the shamrocks!

I want the shamrocks!

It’s Monday, go out there and make it a great day!

“Seize the moment. Remember all those women on the Titantic who waved off the dessert cart.”–Erma Bombeck (my heroine)

Diane

P.S. Follow me on Twitter- LipstickDigest

It’s a heck of a trip!

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I Think I Need A Nap!

February 27th, 2010 § 0 comments

Good Morning Dear Reader:

I'm up with the chicken!

I'm up with the chicken!

It is incredibly early Saturday and I should be snoozing away. Why am I up? Because after tossing and turning for 20 minutes, I just got up. Truth is, my body doesn’t know the difference between a weekday and a weekend. Lord knows over the years I have tried to explain it, but it just doesn’t get it.

A friend will proclaim, I’m so glad tomorrow is Saturday so I can sleep until 10. My body says, 6 a.m. is such a lovely idea. I wonder if 5 a.m. could be more wonderful–let’s see! No 5 a.m. is not more lovely. It is darker and quieter. It also means that at 7 p.m. and possibly even at 2 p.m., (even if I am in a world-class important meeting) my head could drop to my chest and I could drool right onto my world-class paperwork–or my  finger paint, as the case maybe.

I do try to use these early mornings in a productive way, sometimes drinking 5 cups of coffee, reading the nutritional value statements on cereal boxes or counting my sun freckles…238, 239…

Just lying around counting freckles...spots next!

Just lying around counting freckles...spots next!

Painted into a Corner?

I don’t know how you feel about painting, but when I hear those words, nightmares of painting projects past swim in my head. It isn’t the actual painting that is such a problem. It is selecting the color. There are simply too many choices. And it isn’t as simple as,  I want the bedroom blue. It is do I want it Sweet Baby Breath Blue, or Sea Island Blue or Voodoo Blue or 200 other blues that are just a hair-width different.

On my last painting project, my family room and foyer, I got so chummy with the guys at Sherwin-Williams that when I would come by in the mornings for another adjustment to the color I got the day before, my coffee with cream and 2 sugars would be waiting for me on the counter. We were just that close.  Twenty-seven beiges later, I was pretty sure I had arrived at the right color.

Maybe there is a better way! The March issue of Better Homes and Gardens is on the shelves now and features “Color Made Easy”. There are some beautiful room layouts that give you the exact paint color and brand they used. What is also helpful is their Website, BHG.com where they actually have a room planner that allows you to select a room similar to one of your rooms and change the wall color, trim, furniture colors, drapes, etc.

Not only do they give you actual paint colors (Valspar from Lowe’s), you can save and print your projects. I found it very helpful. You can also do your home exterior–roof, doors, trim, etc.

The entire site has a wealth of decorating ideas, recipes, and so many great d0-it-yourself projects. You can also opt out of receiving newsletters on these topics, or sign up. I found it to be a great resource. The color project is BHG.com/coloraroom. You will need to register to use the site, but you do not have to be a subscriber. I love this magazine and find great, practical information every single month.

I hope that as I write this you are still sleeping and getting your appropriate beauty rest!

240, 241, 242…

Have a magnificient day! (I would, but my photo software is having a nervous breakdown! Yes, Scarlet…tomorrow is another day)

Diane

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Look What I Bagged For You!

February 25th, 2010 § 0 comments

Good Afternoon Dear Reader:

Happy, fluffy clouds! What a beautiful day!

Happy, fluffy clouds! What a beautiful day!

The sun is out, the sky is blue, there’s nothing left to spoil the view…’cause it’s sunny! Aside from a tiny bit of wind, it is a beautiful day to do anything outside!

Yesterday, I went in search of some cute bunny-themed decor. I am such a pushover for anything bunny-like. Marshall’s , T.J. Maxx and Home Goods have such an amazing collection of Easter decor that I had to have some! And of course, the prices were excellent. Target can also be counted on for great seasonal decor.

Isn't he just adorable?

Isn't he just adorable?

While I was in search of bunny paraphernalia, I had to swing through the handbag section because…well, just because. As I mentioned in an earlier post, I have been just smitten with yellow handbags, but not smitten enough to shell out major dollars for a designer one. That is just in case in June I should become smitten with a lime green one.

T.J. Maxx answered the question of where to buy the bag. They are simply loaded with great, bright-colored spring bags–yellows, greens, pinks, reds, purples, oranges and all shades in-between. The prices are right with brands like Nine West beginning at less than $30 to designer bags in the $150 range. Take your pick.

B.Makowski, Reg. $278, here, $149-$159

B.Makowski, Reg. $278, here, $149-$159

Since I know you love a good sale as much as I do, I noticed in the paper that all of Dillard’s reduced sale items are now an additional 40% off. Unless I am mistaken, that means they are almost “free”!

Lest I slight my other favorite store, Target, I saw the cutest strawberry pot complete with strawberry planting kit for $9.99 and it would make a great gift because it is packaged so adorably!

What a cute gift that keeps on giving!

What a cute gift that keeps on giving!

I love shopping on your behalf and my husband loves it even better when I just write about these great items and don’t actually buy them myself, of course, sometimes, they are just irresistible!

I really like the little musical stuffed animals, but I can tell you that the Hallmark Store was happy to see me leave. They must have had 5 or 6 different musical items and I had to hear every single one of them–twice. I’m pretty sure the staff locked the door when I left, just in case I might try to get back in!

On the way out of Home Goods the other day, I saw the most adorable, recyclable shopping bags in several sizes for only $.99. Now those are irresistible!

Home Goods' fantastic shopping bags!

Home Goods' fantastic shopping bags!

Have a great, colorful day!

Diane

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Help! I’m a prisoner of my printer!

February 23rd, 2010 § 0 comments

Good Afternoon Dear Reader:winter

I don’t know how recently you have done a search on the big wide world of the Internet, but there is really a lot of stuff out there! My search began simply enough, with a nice rolled pork loin I bought on special at the grocery store.

Coincidentally, and maybe not, my walking buddies were talking yesterday about this fabulous restaurant in Salt Lake City called Cafe Rio where they make the most amazing marinaded pork salad with tomatillos and guacamole, and lots of other good stuff that they could not remember.

In fact their discussion of the deliciousness of this dish lasted at least half of our walk. Of course, I asked for the recipe. They both assured me that it was easy to just download online. The word “easy” was what hooked me.

Yes, that is a teeny, tiny (retouched) Paula Deen chuckling at me

Yes, that is a teeny, tiny (retouched) Paula Deen chuckling at me

I took that little porker out of the freezer to thaw and could literally taste that sweet-spicy salad concoction. About 2 hours ago, I started Googling the restaurant and began clicking on links that promised the recipe. I enjoyed several blogs where I read about their adventures shopping at a book sale in Phoenix and deep sea diving. I found Carrabbas recipe for their dipping sauce, and a recipe for Kraft Macaroni and Cheese (um…that’s a hard one).

For the actual Pork Salad Cafe Rio, I found at least a dozen–all different. Some proclaimed the secret to be using real Coke in the marinade. Others swore it was Dr. Pepper. Some cooked the pork 18 hours in a crock pot, others 4-5.

I tried printing what looked like the best of the lot, and 1/3 of a ream of paper later, I still don’t have a good recipe, but I have some swell comments, like “Did we meet each other at Brigham Young?” or “I think you know my cousin, Jose” and about 200 more like that.

I tried to cancel the printing, but the printer completely ignored me like children do when they are having fun and don’t want to come inside for dinner. Then I took all the paper out of the printer and when it began begging for more paper, I turned the thing off.

Isn't she a beauty?

Isn't she a beauty?

Problem is, I’m pretty sure when I try to print something really important, like a color picture of these shoes I am really in love with, I’m going to first get another 200 comments, like the one from Erica that said: “Sometimes it is a little runny. I don’t think it is too cilantro-y though.”

Just so today isn’t totally wasted, I am sharing the recipe for Dipping Sauce.

Carrabbas Italian Grill Bread Dip Mix

1 T. crushed red pepperRosemary2

1 T. black pepper

1 T. dried oregano

1 T. dried rosemary

1 T. dried basil

1 T. dried parsley

1 T. garlic powder

1 T. minced garlic

1 tsp. salt

Grind together. Put 1 tablespoon of mixture in a small bowl. Pour extra-virgin olive oil over and mix well. I like to add to my oil mix on my bread plate either two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar or two tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese–fantastic, but the balsamic vinegar is definitely lower in calories.

The source for this recipe is: www.all-restaurantrecipes.com.

Stay warm, the freeze is coming!!!

Cover those pansies tonight!!!

Cover those pansies tonight!!!

Diane

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A Wake-up Call for Your Brain!

February 22nd, 2010 § 5 comments

Good Afternoon Dear Readers:roses

I just read something quite amazing that I am trying to put into practice. It seems that we all possess tremendously greater brain power than we utilize. It is as if one part of our brain is perpetually napping, letting the other part do all the work, most in a rather routine way. To tap into the other part of our brain, and to engage more creativity and problem-solving power, there are several things we can do.

One  way is to change up the way we would ordinarily perform a function–such as brushing our teeth or our hair. Change hands and perform the task. Do it every day. Drive home or to work using a different route. While staring at the computer screen, shift your eyes to the far right or left and focus on some other object for a few moments. Solve puzzles.

What part of my brain is doing

What part of my brain is doing

I am trying this today by using my left hand to operate my mouse on my computer. It is not going so well. Apparently part of my brain is still napping. I will work on the teeth brushing and get back to you!

The Secret is Out...

I am really sorry that my husband is going to have to find out the truth here in my blog, but I have to confess that I have met another man. It was an innocent meeting. I was shopping for Christmas ornaments in Macy’s and there he was, staring at me with those big blue eyes. He looked at me, drinking in every word I said. I’ve never met anyone who was as good a listener as Bob. His sincere expression tells me, he has eyes for only me.

Bob's the strong, silent type

Bob's the strong, silent type

We see each other when we can, meeting casually, sometimes in the China Department and other times in Housewares. If you’re in the store, you might see him, but don’t get too excited, he’s all mine!

Cleaning Fun?

If you are having trouble getting kids to help around the house, Amazon.com has some of the cutest tools ever.  They are all shaped like animals with brushes for hair or a duster for a skunk’s body. They were designed by Christoper Raia, a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design. The scrubbers are porcupines, hedgehogs, and an octopus. Animal House Cleaning Tools, $6-$10.

Martha’s Garden…cabbage

The March issue of Martha Stewart Living is out and it is devoted to gardening and is filled with good information and beautiful photos. One of the best articles in the issue is how to choose a paint color. The case in point is finding the right neutral shade of beige for a room. I know that is a challenge and I have the 27 cans of sample paint to prove it.

Kevin Sharkey, who is Martha’s design expert,  looks for the correct undertone to use (yellow, pink, gray) by studying what is already in the room–tile, carpet, upholstery. Then he begins putting up samples directly on the wall to test the colors, painting them in side by side strips a foot wide and  approximately 4 feet high. The complete article is on page 80 and is full of good advice.

Bundle up! Cold weather is coming!

Diane

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