Well, Tinsel, I'm sorry to say this, but you're out this year. Yes, we're having flash backs to 1967 because fake snow (I think it was called "flocking your tree") is in.
Fortunately, the up-side to still being in a recession (I don't believe we're out of it, do you? I mean, REALLY) is that during hard times, trends go back to traditional (again, flocking the tree? Is that necessary?)
So, the big trend of outdoor, jumbo-sized decorations are still going strong. In my neighborhood alone, we have Penguins on a Train, a snow globe of epic proportions (do you know TSA will confiscate your snow globe of regular proportions if you dare sneak it on an airplane?), a blow up dog with a Santa hat, and what I can only describe as stay-puff Christmas trees - a "forest" of 3.
The biggest news-maker this year is the new LED lights. They are supposed to be really energy efficient. While a far cry from the original candle, I think that this could move us in a good direction ... unless, of course, you're the local power company, who, let's face it is really the big winner this time of year.
PS I'm NOT flocking my trees. Nope. Nary a one. How about you, Vixen?
Showing posts with label seasonal. Show all posts
Showing posts with label seasonal. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Gift Tips for Kiddos 2010
BRRRRR. Thanksgiving's over and I've returned with some hot, new ideas for Christmas, Poodles! (Miss you bunches!)
Let's get right down to business = shopping! Everybody's doing it this week, so I have whipped up a list I hope you will find most deliciously helpful with those hard-to-shop for kiddos that will make you look like you are the hippest, hottest, and most spot-on diva (but that's a given, right?). Random order:
- Anything Toy Story 3. The toys from this are all over the place and aren't terribly pricey. Look for Mr. Potato Head to the Ken and Barbie dolls.
- Similarly, with the tres recent release of Harry Potter, anything in that genre is timely and cool.
- Creepily enough (perhaps because of my allergies I think they're creepy), the Zhu Zhu pet hamster continues to be a must-have item. Being the smart critters they are, there are accessories, styles, and colors to choose from (Ah-Ha! Now the Diva sees the allure). With several hamsters in the line, you can add to a small loved one's collection.
- Pillow Pets make sensational gifts. I even heard teenage girls want them. You may have seen them advertised as "a pillow and (visual of a snapping strap here) a stuffed animal pet". Well, I got my preschool nephew the Dog and must say it is so soft and totally adorable (ladybug, dolphin, bumble bee, unicorn = some of the myriad of options). You can find them for about $25-30 on line and I saw some in Wal-Mart the other day. But hurry; the more popular pets are expected to sell out.
- Pre-teens will love a CD featuring Disney or Nickelodeon recording stars. Similar to the Glee sensation, some of the shows aimed at kids this age feature talented singers. Move over, Hannah Montana, replacements are on their way.
- Older kids, especially ones whose parents are like me and won't let them have a phone for FOREVER or until Jr. High, will love getting a digital camera.
- Electronic games such as Wii, XBox, or PlayStation are always hits that if you're lucky, the whole family can enjoy together (or separately - not sure how you'd enjoy it more - I personally have more of a shot at winning when I'm not holding a glass of wine and/ or playing with my kids, but that's just me).
So, Peaches, I hope this gets you pointed in a better direction for finishing (or starting) your shopping extravaganza. Holla!
Let's get right down to business = shopping! Everybody's doing it this week, so I have whipped up a list I hope you will find most deliciously helpful with those hard-to-shop for kiddos that will make you look like you are the hippest, hottest, and most spot-on diva (but that's a given, right?). Random order:
- Anything Toy Story 3. The toys from this are all over the place and aren't terribly pricey. Look for Mr. Potato Head to the Ken and Barbie dolls.
- Similarly, with the tres recent release of Harry Potter, anything in that genre is timely and cool.
- Creepily enough (perhaps because of my allergies I think they're creepy), the Zhu Zhu pet hamster continues to be a must-have item. Being the smart critters they are, there are accessories, styles, and colors to choose from (Ah-Ha! Now the Diva sees the allure). With several hamsters in the line, you can add to a small loved one's collection.
- Pillow Pets make sensational gifts. I even heard teenage girls want them. You may have seen them advertised as "a pillow and (visual of a snapping strap here) a stuffed animal pet". Well, I got my preschool nephew the Dog and must say it is so soft and totally adorable (ladybug, dolphin, bumble bee, unicorn = some of the myriad of options). You can find them for about $25-30 on line and I saw some in Wal-Mart the other day. But hurry; the more popular pets are expected to sell out.
- Pre-teens will love a CD featuring Disney or Nickelodeon recording stars. Similar to the Glee sensation, some of the shows aimed at kids this age feature talented singers. Move over, Hannah Montana, replacements are on their way.
- Older kids, especially ones whose parents are like me and won't let them have a phone for FOREVER or until Jr. High, will love getting a digital camera.
- Electronic games such as Wii, XBox, or PlayStation are always hits that if you're lucky, the whole family can enjoy together (or separately - not sure how you'd enjoy it more - I personally have more of a shot at winning when I'm not holding a glass of wine and/ or playing with my kids, but that's just me).
So, Peaches, I hope this gets you pointed in a better direction for finishing (or starting) your shopping extravaganza. Holla!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Gargantuan Gastronomical Graduation Gift Idea
I am fortunate to have young friends who are in high school (no, not just babysitters - BUT the HS babysitters I have across the street are AWESOME). Sadly, they have a habit of graduating ... as do nieces and nephews (well, the Main Squeeze's are having a long run at graduating in droves lately; my nieces and nephews are elementary school age, of course).
It's time to start graduation gift shopping again now that Mother's Day has rolled around. I really can't bring myself to purchase another set of earrings for a niece (Mary, hope you weren't counting on another pair), so I fired up the ole brain and devised a Diva-ine gift solution that I am compelled to share.
Outside the bars -- because, let's face it, HS graduates are 18 and aren't frequenting bars (ahem!) -- I seem to recall spending time studying in groups and eating when I was in college. So, the idea smacked me upside the well-coiffed head to give gift cards to graduates of near-by restaurants ... or if all else fails, the nearest pizza chain to campus.
Who's gonna' complain about that gift come November when dear old dad's credit card has been mysteriously cancelled???
It's time to start graduation gift shopping again now that Mother's Day has rolled around. I really can't bring myself to purchase another set of earrings for a niece (Mary, hope you weren't counting on another pair), so I fired up the ole brain and devised a Diva-ine gift solution that I am compelled to share.
Outside the bars -- because, let's face it, HS graduates are 18 and aren't frequenting bars (ahem!) -- I seem to recall spending time studying in groups and eating when I was in college. So, the idea smacked me upside the well-coiffed head to give gift cards to graduates of near-by restaurants ... or if all else fails, the nearest pizza chain to campus.
Who's gonna' complain about that gift come November when dear old dad's credit card has been mysteriously cancelled???
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Spring potting tip
Hello, Devoted Diva Darlings ! Sorry for my absence here. Despair no more. The Diva Returns with a handy quick tip just in time for planting your annuals and gift-giving for Mother's Day.
Are you repeatedly confounded by those pesky drainage holes in the bottom of clay/terracotta pots? Me too! I am always trying to find a rock or broken pottery just the size to plug most of it, yet despite my best efforts, dirt ALWAYS finds a way to escape. Alas.
I just learned a solution that I'm implementing immediatemente -- use a coffee filter as a liner between the clay pot and your dirt containing your precious petunia (or darling daisy, or ... well, you get my drift).
Are you repeatedly confounded by those pesky drainage holes in the bottom of clay/terracotta pots? Me too! I am always trying to find a rock or broken pottery just the size to plug most of it, yet despite my best efforts, dirt ALWAYS finds a way to escape. Alas.
I just learned a solution that I'm implementing immediatemente -- use a coffee filter as a liner between the clay pot and your dirt containing your precious petunia (or darling daisy, or ... well, you get my drift).
Monday, July 20, 2009
Enough of this Health Care Reform Business, Let's Talk Turtles
You know, those thingies on tops of SUVs and minivans perched on roof racks. You put luggage in them because your car is packed to the hilt with kids' gaming / DVD equipment to entertain them the whole ride. Side Note: Who ever thought that The Highway Alphabet Game would be labeled as LAME?????
I write this at the suggestion of one of my darling diva sisters, who confided in me tonight, that she is a Turtle Virgin and was totally unsure of how to proceed with such car accessory things. As the big sister, I assured her and even waxed poetic about my soft-sided turtle and bungee cord configuration that allows plenty of legroom in my diva-mobile; admitted, truthfully, that the worst part of the turtle was getting MY suitcase up beyond the tail gate and into the protective coating of my turtle (no animals have been harmed in the filling of my turtle, but I have had to go to the massage therapist afterwards!); and gave her a list of places with automotive departments (I'm not certain she comprendo "automotive department") that would most likely carry these exterior luggage accessories. I even told her that mine was from K-Mart and cost all of about $75! I thought I'd hear the immediate faint tones of high heel shoes clicking towards the garage in a flurry of activity heading for the nearest automotive supply outlet. However, what I got was, "So, do you HAVE to have a roof rack in order to have a turtle?" Um, pretty much. But those, too, can be acquired either by factory installation or accessory add-on places.
I went into the benefits of soft sided (like mine = more flexible, can cram more stuff in them) and the con's = easy for some body builder to abscond with your belongings while stopping at Bate's House of Turkey. The hard sided turtles are basically the flip arguments of the above.
I was a little stunned to find that she had a trailer hitch installed on the back of her SUV ... especially since she's not that into doing her own construction and doesn't own a boat.
There are more options these days with the addition of trailer hitch accessory carriers.
So, dear readers, please weigh in on pros and cons of your turtle experiences. Feel free to post questions to the blog.
Happy motoring, Poodle!
I write this at the suggestion of one of my darling diva sisters, who confided in me tonight, that she is a Turtle Virgin and was totally unsure of how to proceed with such car accessory things. As the big sister, I assured her and even waxed poetic about my soft-sided turtle and bungee cord configuration that allows plenty of legroom in my diva-mobile; admitted, truthfully, that the worst part of the turtle was getting MY suitcase up beyond the tail gate and into the protective coating of my turtle (no animals have been harmed in the filling of my turtle, but I have had to go to the massage therapist afterwards!); and gave her a list of places with automotive departments (I'm not certain she comprendo "automotive department") that would most likely carry these exterior luggage accessories. I even told her that mine was from K-Mart and cost all of about $75! I thought I'd hear the immediate faint tones of high heel shoes clicking towards the garage in a flurry of activity heading for the nearest automotive supply outlet. However, what I got was, "So, do you HAVE to have a roof rack in order to have a turtle?" Um, pretty much. But those, too, can be acquired either by factory installation or accessory add-on places.
I went into the benefits of soft sided (like mine = more flexible, can cram more stuff in them) and the con's = easy for some body builder to abscond with your belongings while stopping at Bate's House of Turkey. The hard sided turtles are basically the flip arguments of the above.
I was a little stunned to find that she had a trailer hitch installed on the back of her SUV ... especially since she's not that into doing her own construction and doesn't own a boat.
There are more options these days with the addition of trailer hitch accessory carriers.
So, dear readers, please weigh in on pros and cons of your turtle experiences. Feel free to post questions to the blog.
Happy motoring, Poodle!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Luckily, the Irish like to Party
Parties have been coming at me full force these days (wedding, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and a surprise birthday party compliments of The Main Squeeze and Katherine), so I've made a vow to be more proactive ... and be the one talking about and planning parties, therefore righting the universe back where it belongs. St. Patty's Day is next and I do love me some Irish partyin', Me Prince/ss, so I've come up with pure gold for you to get you started on your St. P's Par-tay.
If you're going all formal, start with the invitation. But seriously, how serious can you take a St. Patrick's Day party? It's all about green and beer - that's not a slight in any way, just the part that needs to be embraced. So, how about making new beer labels that you put on a beer bottle and deliver (cold, of course) to your intended guests. How fun is that?! Variations on this idea are handing out beer mugs with info inside (and bring the mug to the party to fill with green beer! You can find inexpensive mugs or frosted mugs at K-Mart) or shot glasses. Evites are my latest preferred mode of inviting folks and they have great Irish themes (http://www.evite.com/).
For decorations, you really don't have to do terribly much as your guests will be drinking and eventually won't care or remember what your decorations were. I suggest green and white balloons and fresh clover (available at supermarkets). I have noticed at the Dollar Store while picking up items for a child's school project that there are tons of things, including large felt Leprechaun hats in assorted varieties. If you want to get a little fancier, I suggest decorating with fresh flowers such as daisies, Bells of Ireland, Emerald Roses, white tulips, or white daffodils. Very shi-shi!
Your soon-to-be -intoxicated bunch need some sustenance, because as much as some people would like to think, you really can't live on beer alone (at least after college). I suggest nibbles and a meal to off-set the alcohol absorption. Start with green M&M's (won't you be the talk?!), guacamole, sugar cookies complete with green food coloring, and cupcakes with green and white icing.
Yet, we professionals realize that finger foods/ bar food doesn't do nearly as much as pure MEAT to absorb alcohol. To that end, I suggest a slow-cooked meat item you and your guests will adore. Please note this is NOT a last minute throw together as the meat must cook forever (but it is TOTALLY WORTH IT!).
Corned Beef and Cabbage
6 carrots, sliced (or baby carrots, but please use more than 6)
2 onions, chopped
2-3 lbs. corned beef brisket with seasoning
2 garlic cloves, minced (reduce if there is a lot of garlic in the seasoning pack that usually comes with the c.b. brisket)
a can of beer (See, your theme is in the meat!)
2 Tbsp. yellow mustard (you can use brown mustard, but it could compete with the seasonings that accompany the meat)
1/4 C. brown sugar
1 C. chicken stock
8 wedges of cabbage
Layer the veggies in the bottom of a 4-6 quart crock pot. Rinse the brisket under cold water. Dry with paper towels. Place meat in crock pot and cover with seasoning. Pour beer over, followed by a good mustard coating. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and water; then pour it over the brisket. Cover and cook on low for 11-12 hours. Remove meat and wrap in aluminum foil to keep it warm. Add cabbage wedges to the liquid and cook for about 30 minutes.
I suggest serving potatoes and apples as side dishes. Oh, and salad makes a great green side dish as well!
Besides your green and white frosted cupcakes, for the occasion of St. Patrick's Day, I suggest having a luscious dessert beverage .... Irish Cream, but of course!
1 C. light cream
1 14 oz. can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 2/3 C Irish Whiskey
1 tsp. Instant coffee (!)
2 Tbsp. Hershey's chocolate syrup
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. almond extract
Combine all ingredients in a blender on high for about 30 seconds. Bottle and refrigerate. This will keep for a few months ... like it will last that long!
Busy Pumpkin, please note that these two centerpieces of your party use only two appliances/pots for cooking. Love that the clean up is minimal!
Your guests will think they've been transported to Glocca Mora after this scrumptious party and feast!
Wishing you much luck, my little Clover!
If you're going all formal, start with the invitation. But seriously, how serious can you take a St. Patrick's Day party? It's all about green and beer - that's not a slight in any way, just the part that needs to be embraced. So, how about making new beer labels that you put on a beer bottle and deliver (cold, of course) to your intended guests. How fun is that?! Variations on this idea are handing out beer mugs with info inside (and bring the mug to the party to fill with green beer! You can find inexpensive mugs or frosted mugs at K-Mart) or shot glasses. Evites are my latest preferred mode of inviting folks and they have great Irish themes (http://www.evite.com/).
For decorations, you really don't have to do terribly much as your guests will be drinking and eventually won't care or remember what your decorations were. I suggest green and white balloons and fresh clover (available at supermarkets). I have noticed at the Dollar Store while picking up items for a child's school project that there are tons of things, including large felt Leprechaun hats in assorted varieties. If you want to get a little fancier, I suggest decorating with fresh flowers such as daisies, Bells of Ireland, Emerald Roses, white tulips, or white daffodils. Very shi-shi!
Your soon-to-be -intoxicated bunch need some sustenance, because as much as some people would like to think, you really can't live on beer alone (at least after college). I suggest nibbles and a meal to off-set the alcohol absorption. Start with green M&M's (won't you be the talk?!), guacamole, sugar cookies complete with green food coloring, and cupcakes with green and white icing.
Yet, we professionals realize that finger foods/ bar food doesn't do nearly as much as pure MEAT to absorb alcohol. To that end, I suggest a slow-cooked meat item you and your guests will adore. Please note this is NOT a last minute throw together as the meat must cook forever (but it is TOTALLY WORTH IT!).
Corned Beef and Cabbage
6 carrots, sliced (or baby carrots, but please use more than 6)
2 onions, chopped
2-3 lbs. corned beef brisket with seasoning
2 garlic cloves, minced (reduce if there is a lot of garlic in the seasoning pack that usually comes with the c.b. brisket)
a can of beer (See, your theme is in the meat!)
2 Tbsp. yellow mustard (you can use brown mustard, but it could compete with the seasonings that accompany the meat)
1/4 C. brown sugar
1 C. chicken stock
8 wedges of cabbage
Layer the veggies in the bottom of a 4-6 quart crock pot. Rinse the brisket under cold water. Dry with paper towels. Place meat in crock pot and cover with seasoning. Pour beer over, followed by a good mustard coating. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar and water; then pour it over the brisket. Cover and cook on low for 11-12 hours. Remove meat and wrap in aluminum foil to keep it warm. Add cabbage wedges to the liquid and cook for about 30 minutes.
I suggest serving potatoes and apples as side dishes. Oh, and salad makes a great green side dish as well!
Besides your green and white frosted cupcakes, for the occasion of St. Patrick's Day, I suggest having a luscious dessert beverage .... Irish Cream, but of course!
1 C. light cream
1 14 oz. can Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 2/3 C Irish Whiskey
1 tsp. Instant coffee (!)
2 Tbsp. Hershey's chocolate syrup
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. almond extract
Combine all ingredients in a blender on high for about 30 seconds. Bottle and refrigerate. This will keep for a few months ... like it will last that long!
Busy Pumpkin, please note that these two centerpieces of your party use only two appliances/pots for cooking. Love that the clean up is minimal!
Your guests will think they've been transported to Glocca Mora after this scrumptious party and feast!
Wishing you much luck, my little Clover!
Friday, January 2, 2009
Trapped in a Cleaning Frenzy
I'm starting the New Year's off in my kids' closets. So far, it's been a Yard Bag of trash and a Yard Bag of donations per room. I haven't even gotten to my closet yet.... And the tree is still up... er ... all 4 trees are still up. The upshot of having Critically Ill Main Squeeze before Thanksgiving is that the live tree is still moist due to the fact that we acquired it later than usual. Silver linings abound.
Oh! And The Main Squeeze got his PICC line out before Christmas, so he is merry, hence so am I.
Regards from the battlefront, Poodle!
Oh! And The Main Squeeze got his PICC line out before Christmas, so he is merry, hence so am I.
Regards from the battlefront, Poodle!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Christmas Hints
Please feel free to look back to my Christmas postings from last year ... as I have been remiss a lot lately in my posting (excuses are: wedding that was beyond a nightmare due to Critically Ill Main Squeeze and the ensuing recovery and ensuing sinus infection that is raging behind my face). Nonetheless, I'm still thinking of you, my Sweet Poodle! And I had to pop in for a moment to share this reinforcement with you.
I have said for years on the radio and in person and in writing that men want the gift of gadget for Christmas (that, and lovin', but I digress). It is a tragic mistake for men to assume that their lovely diva wants the same type thing. Really, resist that thought pattern with all your might. I submit for your viewing pleasure the attached, which I can only hope was inspired by my lectures on this topic.
http://creativity-online.com/work/view?seed=5e32d548
Gentlemen, please take notes.
Alas, I must retire now to my steaming cup of whatever it is I cannot taste.
XOXO
Marjorie the Married Main Dish
I have said for years on the radio and in person and in writing that men want the gift of gadget for Christmas (that, and lovin', but I digress). It is a tragic mistake for men to assume that their lovely diva wants the same type thing. Really, resist that thought pattern with all your might. I submit for your viewing pleasure the attached, which I can only hope was inspired by my lectures on this topic.
http://creativity-online.com/work/view?seed=5e32d548
Gentlemen, please take notes.
Alas, I must retire now to my steaming cup of whatever it is I cannot taste.
XOXO
Marjorie the Married Main Dish
Monday, October 13, 2008
It's Pumpkin Time, Pumpkin!
I know! I just LOVE pumpkins! And I use the word ... well .... liberally. They're just the most amazing things. The name is just so cute, n'est pas?
I promise to do more posting, Pumpkin. My topic will be Pumpkins. I apologize for the lapse in postings. It's just I'm about to get married to The Main Squeeze (SQUEAL!!!! IN A FEW WEEKS!!!!!!) and on top of all my work, the boys' soccer and fall baseball schedules, and my singing rehearsals (concert on Sunday), I've been a little remiss. My profuse apo-la-la-logies.
But it is fall and I do have a lot of info on pumpkins. I promise to share over the next few days.
XOXO~ MTMD
I promise to do more posting, Pumpkin. My topic will be Pumpkins. I apologize for the lapse in postings. It's just I'm about to get married to The Main Squeeze (SQUEAL!!!! IN A FEW WEEKS!!!!!!) and on top of all my work, the boys' soccer and fall baseball schedules, and my singing rehearsals (concert on Sunday), I've been a little remiss. My profuse apo-la-la-logies.
But it is fall and I do have a lot of info on pumpkins. I promise to share over the next few days.
XOXO~ MTMD
Friday, September 12, 2008
OK, This is better than that grocery store crap
Inspired by a posting by Cardiac Diva.
Here's a suggestion on how to pass some time watching the hurricane coverage over the next 24 hours. For those of you who don't hear me on the radio, from time to time, I advocate drinking games during coverage of national events to make them much, much more interesting (I'm not about to be branded PC, so why pretend?). I believe these can work for those purposes. If you prefer to lessen the mixing of alcohol, I suggest an alternate game could be that any time you hear the phrases that are the name of these drinks, swill your beverage of choice. You can actually order these drinks in New Orleans at St. Charles Tavern.
MANDATORY EVACUATION
1 1/2 oz. Absolut Ruby Red vodka
1/2 oz. vermouth
ClamatoPrune juice
Combine vodka and vermouth in cocktail glass. Fill remainder of glass with equal parts clamato and prune juice. Stir. Drink. Ask next-door neighbor whose ficus tree blew over and crashed onto your roof-- even though you'd warned him for months to uproot it--if you can use his bathroom. Repeat.
CATEGORY 5
1/2 oz. vodka
1/2 oz. tequila
1/2 oz. rum
1/2 oz. bourbon
1/2 oz. gin
Sweet-and-sour mix
Splash of fruit juice
Combine vodka, tequila, rum, bourbon and gin in a tall glass. Fill remainder of glass with sweet-and-sour mix and splash of juice. Stir, then garnish with an inverted drink umbrella. Drink during peak storm hours, and vow not to believe anyone who tries to tell you the hurricane that flooded your garage and destroyed your shed was just a Category 1.
CONE OF PROBABILITY
1 oz. cinnamon schnapps
1 sugar cone
Pour the schnapps into the sugar cone. Every time you hear a TV weatherman say, "cone of probability," bite off the end of the cone and down the shot. If you hear Weather Channel StormTracker Jim Cantore say it, drink two shots consecutively. (They should change this to the "Cantore Zone"... damn him.) Have you ever noticed that, despite all the cone of probability talk, if Cantore is parked in front of your house your ass is toast?
FEEDER BAND
2 oz. Midori
2 oz. rum
1 scoop vanilla ice cream
After your home loses power, combine Midori and rum in a cocktail glass. Add a scoop of the vanilla ice cream that is melting in your freezer. Stir, and drink through a straw.
BEACH EROSION
1 1/2 oz. Goldschläger
1/2 oz. apple brandy
1 pack Sugar in the Raw
Combine Goldschläger, apple brandy and sugar in cocktail glass. As you drink, seriously contemplate moving your Yankee ass back to New Jersey where it belongs.
DOWNED POWER LINE
1 1/2 oz. rum
5 oz. Jolt Cola
Combine ingredients in a cocktail glass. Drink while trying to figure out how the heck you're supposed to go two freakin' weeks without television and AC.
FLOOD ZONE
2 oz. Kahlúa
2 oz. Baileys Irish Cream
4 oz. rum
Serve in a 6-ounce glass and laugh-cry deliriously as the mess spills all over the countertop. (Get it? There's a little math involved, Pumpkin!)
LOOTERS WILL BE SHOT
1 oz. Jack Daniel's
Splash of sarsaparilla
Rock salt
Load both barrels of a shotgun with rock salt. Climb to the roof of your house with gun, bottle of Jack Daniel's and can of sarsaparilla. Fill shot glass with Jack and splash of sarsaparilla. Watch for looters. When you spot one, blast his ass with rock salt. Drink shot. Repeat.
I don't know about you, but thanks to Cardiac Diva, I'm going to be a lot more relaxed while watching hurricane coverage from now on!
Here's a suggestion on how to pass some time watching the hurricane coverage over the next 24 hours. For those of you who don't hear me on the radio, from time to time, I advocate drinking games during coverage of national events to make them much, much more interesting (I'm not about to be branded PC, so why pretend?). I believe these can work for those purposes. If you prefer to lessen the mixing of alcohol, I suggest an alternate game could be that any time you hear the phrases that are the name of these drinks, swill your beverage of choice. You can actually order these drinks in New Orleans at St. Charles Tavern.
MANDATORY EVACUATION
1 1/2 oz. Absolut Ruby Red vodka
1/2 oz. vermouth
ClamatoPrune juice
Combine vodka and vermouth in cocktail glass. Fill remainder of glass with equal parts clamato and prune juice. Stir. Drink. Ask next-door neighbor whose ficus tree blew over and crashed onto your roof-- even though you'd warned him for months to uproot it--if you can use his bathroom. Repeat.
CATEGORY 5
1/2 oz. vodka
1/2 oz. tequila
1/2 oz. rum
1/2 oz. bourbon
1/2 oz. gin
Sweet-and-sour mix
Splash of fruit juice
Combine vodka, tequila, rum, bourbon and gin in a tall glass. Fill remainder of glass with sweet-and-sour mix and splash of juice. Stir, then garnish with an inverted drink umbrella. Drink during peak storm hours, and vow not to believe anyone who tries to tell you the hurricane that flooded your garage and destroyed your shed was just a Category 1.
CONE OF PROBABILITY
1 oz. cinnamon schnapps
1 sugar cone
Pour the schnapps into the sugar cone. Every time you hear a TV weatherman say, "cone of probability," bite off the end of the cone and down the shot. If you hear Weather Channel StormTracker Jim Cantore say it, drink two shots consecutively. (They should change this to the "Cantore Zone"... damn him.) Have you ever noticed that, despite all the cone of probability talk, if Cantore is parked in front of your house your ass is toast?
FEEDER BAND
2 oz. Midori
2 oz. rum
1 scoop vanilla ice cream
After your home loses power, combine Midori and rum in a cocktail glass. Add a scoop of the vanilla ice cream that is melting in your freezer. Stir, and drink through a straw.
BEACH EROSION
1 1/2 oz. Goldschläger
1/2 oz. apple brandy
1 pack Sugar in the Raw
Combine Goldschläger, apple brandy and sugar in cocktail glass. As you drink, seriously contemplate moving your Yankee ass back to New Jersey where it belongs.
DOWNED POWER LINE
1 1/2 oz. rum
5 oz. Jolt Cola
Combine ingredients in a cocktail glass. Drink while trying to figure out how the heck you're supposed to go two freakin' weeks without television and AC.
FLOOD ZONE
2 oz. Kahlúa
2 oz. Baileys Irish Cream
4 oz. rum
Serve in a 6-ounce glass and laugh-cry deliriously as the mess spills all over the countertop. (Get it? There's a little math involved, Pumpkin!)
LOOTERS WILL BE SHOT
1 oz. Jack Daniel's
Splash of sarsaparilla
Rock salt
Load both barrels of a shotgun with rock salt. Climb to the roof of your house with gun, bottle of Jack Daniel's and can of sarsaparilla. Fill shot glass with Jack and splash of sarsaparilla. Watch for looters. When you spot one, blast his ass with rock salt. Drink shot. Repeat.
I don't know about you, but thanks to Cardiac Diva, I'm going to be a lot more relaxed while watching hurricane coverage from now on!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
School Supplies for MOM
No, I'm not going back to school. My liver couldn't take it, Poodle. However, the start of the school year is a great time for you to organize your household. I've talked in prior posts about the endless ambush of school papers coming home in those deadly backpacks, but golly PETE, they're relentless and will absolutely destroy your counter tops if you don't take preventative action.
Some of you may really like to file things. I like the concept, except for when it's in a nice drawer, it's all of a sudden out of sight, out of mind. And that's not so good when school items have to be returned by a certain date or your kid turns into the loser who can't go on the field trip because mom neatly filed the permission slip that's lounging one more day in its climate-controlled, dark drawer.
So, how do I get the 'You're such an on-top-of it Mom' praise from the teachers? (I admit to striving for the Pet Mom designation.) I return items the very next day with a little help from my Mom School Supplies.
Mom School Supply List:
1 colorful calendar for the fridge (I use themes every year. Sometimes we learn about a country, activity, etc - I know, I'm waaaay into themes- but I plan parties as part of my living, and it just spills over into other areas of my life). Mark school holidays and birthdays immediately. Write due dates of everything. Include sport activities for each child. This is now the brain of the household.
1-2 clip-type magnets to hold said calendar on the fridge (they get heavy and slide down to the floor otherwise). If you post the calendar on a Bulletin Board, you don't need magnets, but may need push pins. Some folks like the dry erase board message center, but the dust from those things stain floors and makes a mess in my experience. But suit yourself.
1 diva-inspired 1" binder with pockets. This is your HOUSEHOLD MANAGEMENT BINDER. You are too glamorous for a plain one, Princess. Mine has a blue leopard print on it. It's fabulous. Some days, it helps to have a fabulous binder with mundane topics in it to inspire you to open it.
A hole puncher. I have a skinny one that fits flat and has ring loops for the binder, which is great because I don't have to run upstairs to my office to grab the big hole punch.
Color coordinating (if possible, otherwise, just colorful) tabs. My tabs are as follows:
~ School for general information, medication forms (keep clean and make copies), summer reading lists, Progress reports or daily reports, etc.
~ Room Parent Information if you're the Room Mom (I'm not this year, I'm pleased to report). One suggestion if you are the room mom, get one or two other co-room-parents if possible so that if someone is out of town, in a meeting, has a sick child, there's more than one person to fill the job. This tab is especially helpful for school carnival or fundraiser information/lists as well as for how to contact parents in the classroom.
~ A tab for each sport/after-school activity that your kid/s participate in. I keep team rosters for years because some of the kids don't go to the same school and inevitably, one child wants a teammate to come to a birthday party and if I've thrown out the list, I can't look up the dad's name to find the child in the phone book. You know... Basic Nightmare.
~ A tab for summer activities so I can refresh my memory in say March when Junior is bugging the stew out of me at Spring Break and I yearn for ways to get him out of the house for an extended period of time
~ A tab for birthday party organization per child as well as a record of what the birthday present was for the child
~ A tab for Christmas gifts so I can make lists for the whole family ... and I never throw the lists out so I won't duplicate presents.
~ In the front pocket, I keep the most recent school directory and some adorable pre-printed Note To The Teacher forms so I can just check off a box.
~ In the back pocket, is a legal pad for notes. I use it a lot.
Cute sticky notes/little note pads, 'cause I love them a lot. I have sticky notes with my company name on them, and then the fun stuff like in the shape of a purse, with shoes printed on them, leopard print, etc. I just picked up the purse-shaped ones at Target for $1 last week. It's my current fave!
Colorful envelopes for sending money in for lunch, PTO dues, field trips, donations to the school library, and whatever endless items I have to send continual checks to the school for. I have noticed that these don't get misplaced like the plain ones do (I happen to be out of them right now and I just got an email that said the PTO didn't get my check, which I DID send BTW but in a plain white A-10 envelope, so see, it pays to have the colorful ones!)
Paper clips. I have an unexplained attachment to binder clips. I just LOVE them a lot. Especially the little bitty ones. They're so cute. But, I do love having everything together. Those backpacks are a black hole. If you paperclip your bright envelope with the check on to the form, there is less chance either piece will wind up in the unknown mystery area where socks disappear to when you put them in the dryer and they never return. Have you noticed that parallel universe between backpacks and clothes dryers, too? Or is it just me?
Any needed pens, pencils, etc.
I'm a To Do list person, so I need a colorful array of legal pads and spiral bound notebooks. These may not be essential for you.
As a management side note, I also have binders for each volunteer activity I do (church committee, each of my singing groups, Junior League, etc.) as well as any special projects I have going on (home decoration ideas I tear out of magazines, for example).
Well, Cupcake, I hope this helps get you organized to respond to this school year and that you, too, can strive for Pet Mom status. If you have any tips that work for you, please post to the blog. I'd la-la-love to add to my repertoire. XOXO
Some of you may really like to file things. I like the concept, except for when it's in a nice drawer, it's all of a sudden out of sight, out of mind. And that's not so good when school items have to be returned by a certain date or your kid turns into the loser who can't go on the field trip because mom neatly filed the permission slip that's lounging one more day in its climate-controlled, dark drawer.
So, how do I get the 'You're such an on-top-of it Mom' praise from the teachers? (I admit to striving for the Pet Mom designation.) I return items the very next day with a little help from my Mom School Supplies.
Mom School Supply List:
1 colorful calendar for the fridge (I use themes every year. Sometimes we learn about a country, activity, etc - I know, I'm waaaay into themes- but I plan parties as part of my living, and it just spills over into other areas of my life). Mark school holidays and birthdays immediately. Write due dates of everything. Include sport activities for each child. This is now the brain of the household.
1-2 clip-type magnets to hold said calendar on the fridge (they get heavy and slide down to the floor otherwise). If you post the calendar on a Bulletin Board, you don't need magnets, but may need push pins. Some folks like the dry erase board message center, but the dust from those things stain floors and makes a mess in my experience. But suit yourself.
1 diva-inspired 1" binder with pockets. This is your HOUSEHOLD MANAGEMENT BINDER. You are too glamorous for a plain one, Princess. Mine has a blue leopard print on it. It's fabulous. Some days, it helps to have a fabulous binder with mundane topics in it to inspire you to open it.
A hole puncher. I have a skinny one that fits flat and has ring loops for the binder, which is great because I don't have to run upstairs to my office to grab the big hole punch.
Color coordinating (if possible, otherwise, just colorful) tabs. My tabs are as follows:
~ School for general information, medication forms (keep clean and make copies), summer reading lists, Progress reports or daily reports, etc.
~ Room Parent Information if you're the Room Mom (I'm not this year, I'm pleased to report). One suggestion if you are the room mom, get one or two other co-room-parents if possible so that if someone is out of town, in a meeting, has a sick child, there's more than one person to fill the job. This tab is especially helpful for school carnival or fundraiser information/lists as well as for how to contact parents in the classroom.
~ A tab for each sport/after-school activity that your kid/s participate in. I keep team rosters for years because some of the kids don't go to the same school and inevitably, one child wants a teammate to come to a birthday party and if I've thrown out the list, I can't look up the dad's name to find the child in the phone book. You know... Basic Nightmare.
~ A tab for summer activities so I can refresh my memory in say March when Junior is bugging the stew out of me at Spring Break and I yearn for ways to get him out of the house for an extended period of time
~ A tab for birthday party organization per child as well as a record of what the birthday present was for the child
~ A tab for Christmas gifts so I can make lists for the whole family ... and I never throw the lists out so I won't duplicate presents.
~ In the front pocket, I keep the most recent school directory and some adorable pre-printed Note To The Teacher forms so I can just check off a box.
~ In the back pocket, is a legal pad for notes. I use it a lot.
Cute sticky notes/little note pads, 'cause I love them a lot. I have sticky notes with my company name on them, and then the fun stuff like in the shape of a purse, with shoes printed on them, leopard print, etc. I just picked up the purse-shaped ones at Target for $1 last week. It's my current fave!
Colorful envelopes for sending money in for lunch, PTO dues, field trips, donations to the school library, and whatever endless items I have to send continual checks to the school for. I have noticed that these don't get misplaced like the plain ones do (I happen to be out of them right now and I just got an email that said the PTO didn't get my check, which I DID send BTW but in a plain white A-10 envelope, so see, it pays to have the colorful ones!)
Paper clips. I have an unexplained attachment to binder clips. I just LOVE them a lot. Especially the little bitty ones. They're so cute. But, I do love having everything together. Those backpacks are a black hole. If you paperclip your bright envelope with the check on to the form, there is less chance either piece will wind up in the unknown mystery area where socks disappear to when you put them in the dryer and they never return. Have you noticed that parallel universe between backpacks and clothes dryers, too? Or is it just me?
Any needed pens, pencils, etc.
I'm a To Do list person, so I need a colorful array of legal pads and spiral bound notebooks. These may not be essential for you.
As a management side note, I also have binders for each volunteer activity I do (church committee, each of my singing groups, Junior League, etc.) as well as any special projects I have going on (home decoration ideas I tear out of magazines, for example).
Well, Cupcake, I hope this helps get you organized to respond to this school year and that you, too, can strive for Pet Mom status. If you have any tips that work for you, please post to the blog. I'd la-la-love to add to my repertoire. XOXO
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Quick Tip: School Supplies
Have you noticed that the school supply lists are getting LONGER AND LONGER???? I have! Another thing I've noticed is that the closer one gets to the school start dates, the more likely places run out of very necessary supplies ... like construction paper (!). Why does a 2nd grader need construction paper? I get it for the kindergartner, but seriously. I digress.
You know who doesn't run out of school supplies? On-line places like Officedepot.com, Officemax.com, and Staples.com. When your order's big enough, they'll comp the shipping and save you a trip up and down and back again through their aisles. Noodle it, GlamourMom!
You know who doesn't run out of school supplies? On-line places like Officedepot.com, Officemax.com, and Staples.com. When your order's big enough, they'll comp the shipping and save you a trip up and down and back again through their aisles. Noodle it, GlamourMom!
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Sick of your kids yet??? Pack 'em off to camp pronto
It's not too late. Several camps have openings ... starting tomorrow morning. Here's the news release I wrote (I'm the spokesperson, so I can do this kinda' thing):
It’s not too late to get your child off the couch and save the summer from boredom and unending trips to the swimming pool. A few Alabama camps have spaces for children at their camps.
“Parents may think they are out of luck by this point in the summer, but the reality is that camps across the state do have openings for campers,” says Marjorie Davis, spokesperson for the Association of Alabama Camps. “Camps have wonderful activities for children designed to get them active before the school bell rings,” she continues.
Some of the most popular activities at camp this year include traditional favorites such as horse-back riding, riflery, swimming, and tennis. “Children at camp certainly don’t complain about being bored because they’re too busy having fun and engaging in exciting activities designed for age and ability,” says Davis. “In addition to the activities typically associated with summer camp, kids this summer are flying through the air on zip lines, climbing bouldering walls, and jumping into lakes on inflatables called Blobs. There’s not a bored face in sight.”
The Association of Alabama Camps represents more than 90 summer camps across the state of Alabama. This year, camps in Alabama will serve an estimated 250,000 people.
Here's who's got spots and when:
Camp Skyline for Girls, Mentone AL
July 6-18
July 20-August 1
Contact www.campskyline.com, call 1-800-448-9279 or email info@campskyline.com
Camp Cosby (YMCA) Alpine (Lake Martin), AL
July 6-11
July 13-18
July 20-25
July 27-August 1
August 3-8
Contact wmcclain@campcosby.org, www.campcosby.org
Marannook Camp (boys and girls), LaFayette, AL
July 20-25
July 27-August 1
Contact www.marannook.org or marannook@mindspring.com
Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys (ages 7-15), Mentone, AL
July 6-18
July 20-August 2
July 6-August 2
Contact www.lookoutmountaincamp.com or call (256) 634-4758
Camp Mac (boys and girls), Talladega National Forest, AL
July 14-August 9
Contact www.campmac.com, office@capmmac.com, or (256) 362-7449
Riverview Camp for Girls, Mentone, AL
July 6-18
July 20-25
July 20- August 1
Go to www.riverviewcamp.com for immediate registration or 800-882-0722 for questions
Camp Coleman (Girl Scouts), Trussville, AL
All remaining sessions through July 25
Day camp accepts boys and girls
Contact the registrar by calling 1-800-734-4541. Camper does not have to be a Girl Scout to attend camp.
Kanawahala Program Center (Girl Scouts), Dunnavant, AL
All remaining sessions through July 25
Contact the registrar by calling 1-800-734-4541. Camper does not have to be a Girl Scout to attend camp.
The available slots were reported to the AAC as of 7/2/08 and are subject change. Please contact individual camp for age, availability, payment arrangements, and other questions.
It’s not too late to get your child off the couch and save the summer from boredom and unending trips to the swimming pool. A few Alabama camps have spaces for children at their camps.
“Parents may think they are out of luck by this point in the summer, but the reality is that camps across the state do have openings for campers,” says Marjorie Davis, spokesperson for the Association of Alabama Camps. “Camps have wonderful activities for children designed to get them active before the school bell rings,” she continues.
Some of the most popular activities at camp this year include traditional favorites such as horse-back riding, riflery, swimming, and tennis. “Children at camp certainly don’t complain about being bored because they’re too busy having fun and engaging in exciting activities designed for age and ability,” says Davis. “In addition to the activities typically associated with summer camp, kids this summer are flying through the air on zip lines, climbing bouldering walls, and jumping into lakes on inflatables called Blobs. There’s not a bored face in sight.”
The Association of Alabama Camps represents more than 90 summer camps across the state of Alabama. This year, camps in Alabama will serve an estimated 250,000 people.
Here's who's got spots and when:
Camp Skyline for Girls, Mentone AL
July 6-18
July 20-August 1
Contact www.campskyline.com, call 1-800-448-9279 or email info@campskyline.com
Camp Cosby (YMCA) Alpine (Lake Martin), AL
July 6-11
July 13-18
July 20-25
July 27-August 1
August 3-8
Contact wmcclain@campcosby.org, www.campcosby.org
Marannook Camp (boys and girls), LaFayette, AL
July 20-25
July 27-August 1
Contact www.marannook.org or marannook@mindspring.com
Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys (ages 7-15), Mentone, AL
July 6-18
July 20-August 2
July 6-August 2
Contact www.lookoutmountaincamp.com or call (256) 634-4758
Camp Mac (boys and girls), Talladega National Forest, AL
July 14-August 9
Contact www.campmac.com, office@capmmac.com, or (256) 362-7449
Riverview Camp for Girls, Mentone, AL
July 6-18
July 20-25
July 20- August 1
Go to www.riverviewcamp.com for immediate registration or 800-882-0722 for questions
Camp Coleman (Girl Scouts), Trussville, AL
All remaining sessions through July 25
Day camp accepts boys and girls
Contact the registrar by calling 1-800-734-4541. Camper does not have to be a Girl Scout to attend camp.
Kanawahala Program Center (Girl Scouts), Dunnavant, AL
All remaining sessions through July 25
Contact the registrar by calling 1-800-734-4541. Camper does not have to be a Girl Scout to attend camp.
The available slots were reported to the AAC as of 7/2/08 and are subject change. Please contact individual camp for age, availability, payment arrangements, and other questions.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Grill Grabbers for July 4th
July 4th is Friday. Wondering what to prepare for an entertaining and delicious summer side? I suggest two foods that you may not think to throw on Barbie that make a wonderful summer splash and are are SO EASY to draw rave reviews.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Despite the convenience and fast turn around of my dad's preferred corn-cooking method, the microwave, I like to grill corn. It's easy and fun to do. Fire Barbie to high and pull back the leaves to make handles. I like to tie the leaves with butcher's string or in a pinch, dental floss. Remove the silk, of course. You can throw the corn on to the grill like this, no problem-0. But I like to brush on quasi-melted butter infused with minced garlic and chopped cilantro or basil. It's just a little fancier with that little flair. Brush, cook, and rotate for about 10 minutes or so depending on the size of the corn. A trick is to keep the leaves from the flame. Once your corn is grilled, you can eat with the handy handles still tied up OR you can break the cob in half and slice off the kernels to use in a salsa or salad.
Grilled Peaches
Don't forget to grill fruit for an outstanding ovation, Mon Chef! My boys' current fave is grilled peaches. It tastes like peach pie with out the crust. They can't believe that I serve them this sweet-tasting delicacy with their meal and don't save it for dessert. You can do either one and you'll score major points with kids and grown-ups alike! Simply cut the peach into halves and remove the seed. I say "simply" because most people can do this without difficulty. However, I encountered peaches last Sunday that weren't exactly the ripest; I just couldn't get them sliced into halves very well. OK, I butchered them. Sigh, "Slaughtered" is more appropriate. Skewers saved the day! Either way, grill the peaches until you get those nifty grill marks on them (shorter cooking time for the sliced-to-bits variety than the perfectly sliced halves).
Serving options are abundant for grilled peaches. Most of the time, I serve them as a side because I'm time-crunched with STARVING children who currently are eating me out of house and home due to full-blast summer activities. Other suggestions I highly recommend include:
~ Serving for dessert with a scoop of ice cream on top of a grilled half OR a butchered peach as topping on the scoop of ice cream. Either choice makes a pretty and unexpected presentation.
~ Chop up the slaughtered grilled peach even further and make a salsa with your grilled corn to put on top of grilled fish. Add diced avocado, mango, and papaya mixed with a little lemon juice, garlic, and chopped cilantro and your fruit chutney with corn makes a colorful and delicious topping to please the eye and stomach.
Any grilled fruit or veggie you'd like to suggest? I'd love to hear about it, so post your fave by clicking that envelope picture below to the right. Happy Independence Day, Divas and Dudes!
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Despite the convenience and fast turn around of my dad's preferred corn-cooking method, the microwave, I like to grill corn. It's easy and fun to do. Fire Barbie to high and pull back the leaves to make handles. I like to tie the leaves with butcher's string or in a pinch, dental floss. Remove the silk, of course. You can throw the corn on to the grill like this, no problem-0. But I like to brush on quasi-melted butter infused with minced garlic and chopped cilantro or basil. It's just a little fancier with that little flair. Brush, cook, and rotate for about 10 minutes or so depending on the size of the corn. A trick is to keep the leaves from the flame. Once your corn is grilled, you can eat with the handy handles still tied up OR you can break the cob in half and slice off the kernels to use in a salsa or salad.
Grilled Peaches
Don't forget to grill fruit for an outstanding ovation, Mon Chef! My boys' current fave is grilled peaches. It tastes like peach pie with out the crust. They can't believe that I serve them this sweet-tasting delicacy with their meal and don't save it for dessert. You can do either one and you'll score major points with kids and grown-ups alike! Simply cut the peach into halves and remove the seed. I say "simply" because most people can do this without difficulty. However, I encountered peaches last Sunday that weren't exactly the ripest; I just couldn't get them sliced into halves very well. OK, I butchered them. Sigh, "Slaughtered" is more appropriate. Skewers saved the day! Either way, grill the peaches until you get those nifty grill marks on them (shorter cooking time for the sliced-to-bits variety than the perfectly sliced halves).
Serving options are abundant for grilled peaches. Most of the time, I serve them as a side because I'm time-crunched with STARVING children who currently are eating me out of house and home due to full-blast summer activities. Other suggestions I highly recommend include:
~ Serving for dessert with a scoop of ice cream on top of a grilled half OR a butchered peach as topping on the scoop of ice cream. Either choice makes a pretty and unexpected presentation.
~ Chop up the slaughtered grilled peach even further and make a salsa with your grilled corn to put on top of grilled fish. Add diced avocado, mango, and papaya mixed with a little lemon juice, garlic, and chopped cilantro and your fruit chutney with corn makes a colorful and delicious topping to please the eye and stomach.
Any grilled fruit or veggie you'd like to suggest? I'd love to hear about it, so post your fave by clicking that envelope picture below to the right. Happy Independence Day, Divas and Dudes!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Ball field Accoutrements
One of the bleacher moms told me yesterday before the electrical storm and ensuing downpour that I should post a list of everything I bring to the ball field so that my player and his cheering entourage can enjoy the game.
1. An umbrella, which inevitably gets left in the car.
2. A cooler with pre-frozen Gatorade and water bottles (you not only keep the cooler cooler, but the player gets the frozen drink in the dug-out and it stays colder longer OR he enjoys a slushie); a baggie with moistened wash cloths; bug spray (refreshing when you spray on chilled bug spray!); 45 sunscreen (ditto); drinks for the child's cheering section; sliced fruit; and ice in a baggie for injuries. I take a bigger cooler if we are enjoying a double-header in the oven.
3. Lots of napkins and paper towels
4. A stadium chair
5. At least 1 baseball for little brother's entertainment
6. A bag in addition to my purse. Mental note: need to condense this into one item. In the bag are snacks, chips - basically energy junk food that won't melt in the heat, little brother's glove, my glove (little brother has a rocket for an arm), tons of napkins, wet ones (usually gets left in the car), eye black stuff, face stick of sunscreen (I swear by that stuff with sweaty boys), and anything else I can't carry.
The Main Dish does a lovely pack mule imitation. Glamour abounds at the ball field. But, of course, I wear a floppy hat so as to ensure the diva-look.
Feel free to use these tips at your picnic or other outdoor activity in the oven.
Stay cool!
1. An umbrella, which inevitably gets left in the car.
2. A cooler with pre-frozen Gatorade and water bottles (you not only keep the cooler cooler, but the player gets the frozen drink in the dug-out and it stays colder longer OR he enjoys a slushie); a baggie with moistened wash cloths; bug spray (refreshing when you spray on chilled bug spray!); 45 sunscreen (ditto); drinks for the child's cheering section; sliced fruit; and ice in a baggie for injuries. I take a bigger cooler if we are enjoying a double-header in the oven.
3. Lots of napkins and paper towels
4. A stadium chair
5. At least 1 baseball for little brother's entertainment
6. A bag in addition to my purse. Mental note: need to condense this into one item. In the bag are snacks, chips - basically energy junk food that won't melt in the heat, little brother's glove, my glove (little brother has a rocket for an arm), tons of napkins, wet ones (usually gets left in the car), eye black stuff, face stick of sunscreen (I swear by that stuff with sweaty boys), and anything else I can't carry.
The Main Dish does a lovely pack mule imitation. Glamour abounds at the ball field. But, of course, I wear a floppy hat so as to ensure the diva-look.
Feel free to use these tips at your picnic or other outdoor activity in the oven.
Stay cool!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Tip Toe Shape
Cupcake, it's starting to heat up outside. It's time to put your toes out in cute sandals. Ooh! I just love shoes! However, don't blow the look by sporting ugly feet in snazzy footwear. What a buzz kill!
Now I know what you're thinking, "Darling Dish, I don't have time or money (do you KNOW what summer camp activities cost for kids? or how long a diva drives daily to get those kids out of my hair? YES, I do) to run off for a weekly pedicure!" No sweat. Here are some diva-licious home pedi tips so you can look your tip toe best!
1. Remove old nail polish completely.
2. With high quality clippers (invest in new ones every 2 years, I say), trim the toenail so as to not let the toenail hang over your toe. That's a toe-pas! (giggle: instead of faux pas! Couldn't resist it!)
3. For a square toe shape, file the corners of your nail in one direction using an emory board (metal files tear your nail, Princess!). Remember, the coarse surface shortens the nail; the smoother surface smooths the nail edge.
4. Soak those tired puppies. Use a large, flat-bottom bowl or equivalent with warm water to cover your feet completely. Add bath salts, aromatherapy products, or Epsom salt to the water. Delicious. Adding a 1/4 cup of milk to the water will do wonders since lactic acid helps loosen dead skin! Great factoid. The more calloused your feet, the longer your puppies stay submerged.
5. After toweling your feet off (don't they feel supple?!), apply cuticle remover to the base of each nail and rub in. After waiting a minute or so, use an orange stick to push back cuticles. Use cuticle clippers to remove excess, but be careful!!!
6. Apply a foot or body scrub to your foot. Use a wet pumice stone if you have one handy to apply the abrasive. The idea is to smooth your foot and remove dead skin. If your foot turns red, back off, baby -- you're punishing your peds!
7. Rinse, towel dry, and apply a moisturizing foot cream. Mmmmm.... I don't know about you, but I'm semi-conscious with relaxation at this juncture.
8. Rehydrate your cuticles with cuticle oil.
9. Pull out your nail polish remover (with acetone) and apply to the nail to get rid of the oils you just applied to the cuticle (i.e. leave it on the cuticle, but off the nail itself).
10. Once dry, apply 3 coats of nail polish and then a sealer.
Allow ample time for your polish to dry.
Now, isn't that refreshing and appealing, Kitten?! It makes such a big difference in the way you feel about yourself ... and makes those sandals look even more adorable! Promise!
Now I know what you're thinking, "Darling Dish, I don't have time or money (do you KNOW what summer camp activities cost for kids? or how long a diva drives daily to get those kids out of my hair? YES, I do) to run off for a weekly pedicure!" No sweat. Here are some diva-licious home pedi tips so you can look your tip toe best!
1. Remove old nail polish completely.
2. With high quality clippers (invest in new ones every 2 years, I say), trim the toenail so as to not let the toenail hang over your toe. That's a toe-pas! (giggle: instead of faux pas! Couldn't resist it!)
3. For a square toe shape, file the corners of your nail in one direction using an emory board (metal files tear your nail, Princess!). Remember, the coarse surface shortens the nail; the smoother surface smooths the nail edge.
4. Soak those tired puppies. Use a large, flat-bottom bowl or equivalent with warm water to cover your feet completely. Add bath salts, aromatherapy products, or Epsom salt to the water. Delicious. Adding a 1/4 cup of milk to the water will do wonders since lactic acid helps loosen dead skin! Great factoid. The more calloused your feet, the longer your puppies stay submerged.
5. After toweling your feet off (don't they feel supple?!), apply cuticle remover to the base of each nail and rub in. After waiting a minute or so, use an orange stick to push back cuticles. Use cuticle clippers to remove excess, but be careful!!!
6. Apply a foot or body scrub to your foot. Use a wet pumice stone if you have one handy to apply the abrasive. The idea is to smooth your foot and remove dead skin. If your foot turns red, back off, baby -- you're punishing your peds!
7. Rinse, towel dry, and apply a moisturizing foot cream. Mmmmm.... I don't know about you, but I'm semi-conscious with relaxation at this juncture.
8. Rehydrate your cuticles with cuticle oil.
9. Pull out your nail polish remover (with acetone) and apply to the nail to get rid of the oils you just applied to the cuticle (i.e. leave it on the cuticle, but off the nail itself).
10. Once dry, apply 3 coats of nail polish and then a sealer.
Allow ample time for your polish to dry.
Now, isn't that refreshing and appealing, Kitten?! It makes such a big difference in the way you feel about yourself ... and makes those sandals look even more adorable! Promise!
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
The Indy 500
Do you think I had a good time at the 500 or what? I'm telling you, there's never a dull moment around me. I can get myself into pretty much anything. There's just nothing quite like being in a really fast, really red race car plastered with sponsors. Hugging curves never felt so extraordinary. The engineers, though, leave out the comfort factor in these puppies. I can't imagine driving in that capsule for hours on end for 500 miles. Serious fanny fatigue has GOT to ensue.
The part about the race experience that made me laugh the hardest? People kept telling me that "Indy Car Racing is so much more high-brow than Nascar". The only thing I could imagine that people were talking about on this subject was that in addition to your soda and beer choices, Indy 500 fans can select margaritas at food and beverage stands in the stadium. Please tell me when tequila and triple sec started to qualify as "high brow". Not that I was expecting tails and Kir Royales to abound at the race course, but I'm starting to wonder about some of my racing sources and their lucidity.
One thing people kept telling me before the race is that Indy cars go faster than other race cars (hence, them thinking this race format is superior to the other types of racing; I can't judge as I've only been to a grand total of one race now). All I can say is you need to not blink because you'll totally miss a car going by. You can only detect a blur of color when the car passes you. Sometimes, I just counted the nee-yaa sounds whipping past.
A moment to talk about the spectacular seats we had. Diva Janet, you are a sporting arena goddess!!! The seats were AWESOME. We were about 12 rows from the track, across from the pagoda and stage where EVERYTHING happened. I could plainly watch Kristi Yamaguchi climb the ladder to get on the platform to wave the flag (her jeans, I SWEAR, looked like they were Jordache brand from the 80's!!!). I saw Danica throw down her gloves after she was hit and taken out of the race to try to settle the score. I watched Scott Dixon turn the bottle of milk on himself. The pagentry at that event is pretty cool ... and I could see the scheduled and unscheduled stuff without much aid from the jumbo-tron. Impressive.
The factoid I found most interesting: it didn't smell at all. The cars run on ethanol. Bet you divas didn't know that one. There's always something to learn, Kitten.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Gas Link
Gas prices in Indiana are 20 cents MORE than prices in Alabama. Woah! I'm wondering if that's because they're trying to make money on all the race fans. Sigh.
Here is a link allowing you to put in a zip code and it ranks the gasoline prices lowest to highest in your area. http://autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx
Here is a link allowing you to put in a zip code and it ranks the gasoline prices lowest to highest in your area. http://autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
If I don't post for a while ...
It's because I'm about to be at the ball field constantly. My 5 year old's t-ball team won the city championship last night. Both my boys have been chosen for all-stars. Of course, their games will be played in 2 different towns. What do you think my odds are that the games won't be at the EXACT SAME TIME??? I'm about to hold my breath.
Oh, and I'm heading to Indianapolis for the weekend. I hear there's something called a "motor sport event" happening there. I'll investigate and report back.
Oh, and I'm heading to Indianapolis for the weekend. I hear there's something called a "motor sport event" happening there. I'll investigate and report back.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
WHAT AM I THINKING?
My express apology to Diva WineKnow. I cannot believe I neglected to mention that you should drop what you're doing (once you finish reading this) and call Jennifer at The Wine Cellar. If your Mom is in town and likes wine, have Jennifer put together a wine gift basket for you. Click on her link below, left and take a gawk at some of the gift baskets. Then call her to order. Again, you'll be sure to be Mom's Favorite.
PS She did NOT tell me to do this. It just hit me.
Now that my brain has whacked back into proper function .... If your mom's a reader, contact Katherine at Jonathan Benton Bookseller for a book suggestion or gift card.
Better yet, combine these two ideas, cover your bases, and Mom will love you forever (like she doesn't already. You know you're her favorite!!!!)
Off I go. XOXO
PS She did NOT tell me to do this. It just hit me.
Now that my brain has whacked back into proper function .... If your mom's a reader, contact Katherine at Jonathan Benton Bookseller for a book suggestion or gift card.
Better yet, combine these two ideas, cover your bases, and Mom will love you forever (like she doesn't already. You know you're her favorite!!!!)
Off I go. XOXO
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