clear as Krystal

Remodel Progress

2012-02-12T20:21:00.000-08:00

Technically this bathroom remodel was to be wrapped up this weekend. With most remodels things take a little longer then anticipated. We ran into a minor set back, bugs! Yes, that's right as my husband was installing the last section of wood planks he noticed bugs. We couldn't tell if it was just the last section of wood that had bugs or if all the wood was infested. Regardless, the wood has been removed and taken to the dump.
The wall may have set back the completion of the project, but he was able to move forward on the plumbing fixtures. The new toilet was installed and the sink is in progress. Notice the barrel from the office, it's our new sink base. As you can see the slate counter still needs installed, but since we have a guest coming next weekend we decided it was better to focus on getting the key pieces working.

Preschool!!!

2012-02-09T20:32:00.000-08:00

It's a little crazy to think that we are already planning and researching preschools. Xavier just turned one. This is Seattle and with all things education there are waiting lists. Since January we have been doing research, attending preschool fairs, (yes there is such a thing), and touring a few schools. It was a pretty clear picture, after the preschool fair, what school we were really interested in. After some preregistration paperwork we received word that Xavier can start in the fall. He will start in the half day program learning Spanish and Mandarin. We are so excited for this new phase to begin.

Bathroom Demo

2012-02-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

demo is progress

We had plans to do a minor remodel to our downstairs bathroom, it just wasn't on the list to do at the beginning of the year. Due to the Snow Storm and being stuck in the house for a few days, my husband decided it was time to demo and get moving on the project. Now we have a guest coming in a few weeks so this project has to wrap up quickly. Actually, the finishes were so old that everything was demolished in a few hours. Now it's just getting the new finishes installed.

new wall finish in progress

There are no major changes mostly cosmetic updates. The shower will stay as is, new plumbing fixtures and floor. Most of the materials used are reclaimed which is great on the budget. It is our basement bathroom so we wanted the finishes to be a little rustic, which is why we decided to use reclaimed fence wood for the sink wall. We will install a dark slate floor and new white fixtures. Now lets just hope it can all come together before our guest arrives.

Snowed In

2012-01-19T13:04:00.000-08:00

Snow in Seattle is always fun....not really. The first Snow day was fun, took the little guy out on a sled and made a snowman. But now it's turned into a frozen mess and it just keeps getting colder. Hopefully tomorrow will bring warm rain and we can actually leave the house.

Purging In Process

2012-01-16T12:14:00.000-08:00

The purging has started. This weekend I made some really good progress in the office. We have lived in this house for almost four years and while we made some updates to other rooms the office was always at the bottom of the list. It's a small room with no closets, one window and two outlets (Neither of which have a ground). First thing we knew is we needed storage...but what type and what side of the room. Then we inherited this 42" glass top which worked as nice desk for a while.

Then we moved on to other projects, like Xavier's room. While other parts of the house were getting updated this room became the gathering ground for everything. It really did turn into a paper mess.

The shelving went up last weekend and I started to put things away. We decided the large glass top desk really didn't work anymore. The room is just to small to have such a large desk.

We did some rearranging. We put the glass top away and moved in a much smaller work surface. Fun fact about this work surface it's a little piece of W. Seattle history. This is an old counter from a very old grocery store that used to be where the current whole foods hole is today. We bought it for ten dollars when Hancock Fabrics was closing their doors. It has a fun retro pattern on it, that actually matches the new office paint color.
As you can see the office is far from being completed, but I can at least see the desk and my books have a proper home. Now back to purging.

Good Morning

2012-01-11T08:27:00.000-08:00

While the commute from West Seattle to SODO should be a short one (15 minutes max). Lately it's taken close to 40+minutes, today was one of those days. At least there was a great sunrise to enjoy as we slowly moved across the bridge.

Lesson Learned

2012-01-08T16:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend was a busy one from a preschool fair to birthday parties. We did find a window of time to shop IKEA. We were on a mission to complete the storage system we had started for our office. It was a bit disappointing when we arrived and found out the EFFEKTIV line is being discontinued. Luckily, there was a very helpful employee who tracked down a few key pieces and put us on a waiting list for the display pieces to complete our system. Note to self next time do not wait so long between purchases to complete a storage system.

This is what the system looks like and more to come on what our final system looks like.

Three Words for the New Year

2012-01-04T08:43:00.001-08:00

1. Purge: Over the last three years we have managed to fill every closet in our house, with what I'm not sure but this year we are purging all unnecessary items.

2. Invest: This year is a big year for me, I'm turning the 30 and I need to get our financial future in order. We've been doing our research and now it's time to make a decision.

3. Stretch: I have to make time for yoga. I don't really have a lot of extra time to go to the gym these days but I think I can manage an hour a week.

I will admit that there are a few other things I want to accomplish this year but for know I will focus on just three.

Christmas Vacation

2011-12-29T20:26:00.000-08:00

It's been nice having this last week of the year off. We're enjoying our Christmas tour (2011). This year we had to visit all the grandparents. First to Blaine then to Idaho. While I have enjoyed the family time, I'm itching to start my 2012 to do list. But first one last Christmas celebration with Xavier's Great Grandparents.

Christmas is almost here

2011-12-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

We spent the weekend wrapping up the last of our holiday shopping. We kept it local, so no major mall crowds to battle. Then I found some time between gift exchanging with friends to bake Christmas cookies.

I will say baking with a one year old is a little challenging, there was a lot of one arm mixing. Perhaps, next year he will be a little more into helping or at least eating the yummy chocolates.

Christmas Cheer

2011-12-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

The stockings are hung and the tree is trimmed. Finally, we had a weekend at home to enjoy a little holiday decorating.

Birthday Wrap Up

2011-12-05T20:36:00.001-08:00

Xavier's birthday weekend was a lot of fun. It was three days of events with friends and family.

First a Seahawks Game on Thursday Night.

Followed up with a Birthday Party on Friday Night.

Then more birthday fun with the Grandparents on Saturday.

Now its time to pull out the Christmas decorations, December is going to fly by!

Happy Birthday Xavier

2011-12-01T11:08:00.001-08:00

What a year this has been, as they say having a child changes your life but what they do not say enough of is how much joy that child brings into your life. Xavier, is blessing and we can't imagine our life without this little guy. Let the Birthday Fun Begin!

December 1st... Almost

2011-11-30T12:18:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is a very special day at our house, our little guy is turning ONE! Yes, that's right One on the First. I can not believe how fast a year has gone.

In preparation for a weekend of Birthday Fun, we have been quickly trying to pull all the details together. Last night I started to make the cake pops. My first time at cake pops, fingers crossed they turn out. More Birthday Fun to come tomorrow.

Sailing Away

2011-08-27T20:03:00.001-07:00

Sometimes life presents you with opportunities you just can't pass up. Especially, when that opportunity is a evening cruise on a yacht. Thanks to my husbands clients we were lucky enough to enjoy such pleasure. Xavier, even got his turn at the captains chair.

Baby Food Fun

2011-08-07T14:36:00.000-07:00

Introducing solid foods to Xavier has been a fun process. I've only been preparing homemade solids. Although, I should call it Homemade Mash there is nothing "solid" about anything he eats.

Yes, it takes a little longer then just popping open a jar from the store but there is something fun about fixing your child's first eats. The important thing is making time to prep a few meals for the week vs trying to make new things everyday.

I found a great book filled with recipes and tips on what foods should be introduced when. I usually set aside some time on Sunday to cook, puree, and freeze a couple of different types of veggies this way I can mix his meals up during the week.

On the menu this week zucchini and squash.

The book I bought is "The best Homemade Baby Food on the Planet" by Karin Knight R.N. & Tina Ruggiero M.S. R.D. L.D.

A Tea Party

2011-07-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

I just returned from an afternoon tea party. Having tea has never been so much fun. I think it was all the lovely fascinators the ladies were wearing. I may need to buy a few more of these very cute head pieces.

Xavier, is not quite sure about mamas fascinator

Let there be Light

2011-07-17T16:27:00.000-07:00

Finally, after three years of much debate we have found a dinning room light we both love. It is always an interesting conversation when it comes to selecting finishes for our home. My husband and I both have our likes and dislikes and we both love things outside of our budget. A few weeks ago my husband found a light that we both liked with in our budget. Success, it is now installed and illuminating our dinners.

Where does the time GO!

2011-05-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, it looks like I'm officially just a quarterly blogger. Time goes fast and there are so many other things I get side tracked on when I sit down at the computer. I appreciate those who blog everyday, I have yet to be able to accomplish that. It's also hard when you have this little guy looking at you while you're at the computer wasting precious play time.

What have I been doing? Finding a good balance between working 40 hours in an office and working endless hours at home. Some days are harder then others but I think after being back to work for just over a month I've found a balance. The key is keeping things organized and the dishes must always be washed and put away.I know dishes should be the least of my worries but it sends me over the edge if there are dirty plates in the sink. I must get this from my grandmother. It also helps to have a husband who is very helpful and will wake up at 2am to put the Binky back in the kids mouth so I can sleep just a little longer.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

( photo source unknown)

A Table Set For Connie

2011-02-26T15:21:00.000-08:00

Okay so February is almost over but I did it. I finally pulled together something fun for my cousin. I'm sure by now she already has everything for her table but here are my suggestions.

So Long January

2011-01-31T18:25:00.000-08:00

Where did the month go? As an adult time has always gone faster then I remember as a child. Now with my own child the time is still going fast but it's a balance of what do I fill my day with hanging with baby and getting the basic chores done or post on the blog. I have some ideas for the blog other then baby things but we will see if I can get that going or not. Stay tuned if your still checking in.

Photos Photos Photos

2011-01-09T17:14:00.000-08:00

Is there such a thing as too many photos of your newborn? Well, maybe but they grow at an amazing rate and change from day to day. Not to mention you have to capture them in all their cute outfits before they outgrown them.
The thing to keep on top of is organizing all these photos. I've successfully filled one album and started a second and it's only been six weeks.

Here is one of my favorite in his cute jumper that is now too small.

Watch Where You Stand

2011-01-06T12:52:00.001-08:00

Pee-pee teepee from uncommon goods

Here's my funny mom story for the day. Baby and I had our first solo outing to the doctor today.
It was his one month baby well check where they do the basic measurements weight, height, head circumference. When you're a new baby you have to get down to your birthday suit to get an accurate weight recorded. Well, we all know that sometimes when little boys are exposed they tend to pee and not just a little trickle but a full fire house empty the tank kind of pee. That is exactly what happened today as he was being put up on the scale he releases all over my jacket, floor and the chair. The frustrating part was I had just barely taken off my jacket and placed it on the empty chair, which by the way was at least a foot and a half away from the scale. The positive side was he did not get his diaper bag or me. There have been some close encounters on the changing table so many that I think it's time to buy these little Pee-pee teepees.

New Years with a Newborn

2010-12-31T15:47:00.001-08:00

This year we won't be getting all dressed up and dancing the night away. Instead we will be comfy in our PJ's enjoying a movie by the fire. We will defiantly be up into the wee hours of the night since my son likes to eat at least once every three to four hours. First resolution of the new year get at least 5 hours of sleep at one time!

Holiday Traditions

2010-12-24T13:51:00.000-08:00

Ti's the season to celebrate and participate in our favorite holiday traditions. Growing up we did a lot of holiday things; baked cookies, made gingerbread houses, drove around looking at Christmas lights and of course watched A White Christmas. Now that we are starting our own family we talked about what traditions we will do. One tradition that we did start as a new couple was always going for dinner at Icon Grill and having a piece of Candy Cane Cake. Since this year we didn't get a chance to make our annual holiday dinner my husband didn't want the tradition to be broken. Last night he surprised me with a piece of Candy Cane Cake and a glass of milk.

Sleep Eat Repeat

2010-12-16T15:25:00.000-08:00

It's been two weeks now since our little guy came home. We are all adjusting to new schedules and have been very thankful for all the support from our friends and family. I'm getting used to this three hour feeding schedule and catching as many naps as possible. If only I had a room like this to nap the afternoon away.

photo from Architectural Digest

Nesting

2010-10-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

That's right it's true what they say every pregnant women goes through her nesting period. I've been doing some serious nesting these last few months. Cleaning closets out, purging old clothes and of course prepping the babies room. The one thing they don't mention is how tired you get from doing just a simple task. I find myself needing to take many breaks along the way. Luckily, my husband has been a huge help with everything.

One of the biggest accomplishments was changing a window seat my aunt had designed at age 16 into our changing table. Yes, this window seat has been in the family for many years, I actually had it in my room as a little girl. Luckily for us my grandma keeps everything and it was screaming to come back to Seattle for major makeover.

before

after

32 weeks and counting

2010-10-17T17:23:00.000-07:00

I know it has been a few "seasons" since I posted anything but I have been busy. Between work, house, friends, and preparing to have a child blogging never makes the cut. Yes, that's right my husband and I are expecting our first child. A little boy!

More to come I promise.

Spring Bling

2010-04-14T20:14:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I attended a fun Stella & Dot trunk show, where I purchased this fun new ring. I think this will be the perfect accessory for the summer weddings I will be attending this year. This is my second ring from Stella & Dot and I don't know what I like better the rings or the cute little boxes they come in.

A New Couch

2010-04-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

Birthday weekend has come and gone, but I still have one gift coming.

We finally did it! After much debate we purchased a couch for the living room. We have been eyeing this style of couch for years. The one thing that always held us up was the price. Luckily thru many lunches spent blog reading. I came across the couch guy. Fantastic service, made to order products and great prices. In two months the living will finaly get new seating.

Birthday Weekend

2010-04-01T20:28:00.000-07:00

What a fun surprise to already have received a few birthday wishes in the mail. I was especially surprised to have received a birthday card from my grandmother two day's early. I love my Grandma Betty but she is notorious for getting cards into the mail a few days past the celebration date. I was especially touched that see sent me a birthday card that was once my great great grandmothers.

We all think it is crazy that my grandma keeps everything from the past but really she is saving memories of our family's history. However, I think she can throw out the old church bulletins.

Thank you Grandma for the lovely birthday wishes!

Focus on the moment

2010-03-21T18:31:00.000-07:00

Yeah it's Wednesday, and the week is almost over. I am looking forward to a weekend of entertaining my parents. For now I need to stay focused on my many work tasks that need to be completed between now and Friday.
If only this room was more than a small photo hanging next to my computer.

In need of a Spring Break

2010-03-21T18:05:00.000-07:00

Apologies to the few people who read this blog. Life has been busy and blogging is always at the bottom of my to do list. I admire those who post daily.

This year is flying by and I am starting to miss the days when life came to a stop and you could take a "break". The option is still there but now it is planning in advance and requesting time off and knowing that upon your return you will be faced with that much more work to catch up on.

For now I will work planning 2011's beach break, because 2010 is all about the staycations!

Spring = Spring Cleaning

2010-02-28T20:33:00.000-08:00

Since this is one of the first weekends of the year that we didn't have a lot of plans, we took advantage and spent the weekend catching up on house projects. I am please to report not only did shelves and closets get reorganized, I can walk into my office again.

a better way to keep all my shoes organized

Unfortunately, I had let my office become a dumping ground from random stuff. It doesn't help that there is no closet in this room.

All is better now. A new desk was added and storage was moved around. There is still a lot of things I want to do or should I say buy, but tonight it looks much better.

new office layout

A Love Story

2010-02-23T22:06:00.001-08:00

My grandparents were married in 1950 my grandmother was 21 and my grandfather was 24. This past weekend we celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary. It was a celebration with friends and family in the small town of Wilder, Idaho. The place they have called home for the last sixty years.

I admire my grandparents for all their accomplishments big and small. It is not everyday that you get to meet a couple who share such a long life together.

Dessert

2010-02-15T19:34:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Coulis Drizzle

Favorite Things

2010-01-26T19:32:00.000-08:00

I am back in the City of Rain! OK so it hasn't really rained that much since I have been back, but I finally get to wear my new rain boots. This was one of my favorite Christmas presents.

These work great to keep my feet dry when I occasionally walk the dog and I love that they have a real cowboy boot heel.

If you're thinking cowboy/rain boots? I do have country roots, and in my opinion these are a great blend of city and country. I am sure my cousin would just roll her eyes at my new boots....but come on wouldn't these make fantastic irrigating boots!

Farewell Hong Kong

2010-01-21T05:22:00.000-08:00

Feeling like a Local

2010-01-18T06:32:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day. It is surprising how fast the time goes in the office. I think it is because the entire office leaves for lunch and you actually get some time away from the computer screen. I really need to do that more when I get back to Seattle.

This evening I ventured out and did some window shopping, and yes mom I went all by myself with out any worries! The great thing about Hong Kong is everything is open late and there are always lots and lots of people out, so you never feel alone. Until I stopped for some dinner then I felt a little sad asking for a "table for one". The hostess was nice and brought me a magazine while I waited for my food so I didn't look completely pathetic just sitting there.

The second good and bad thing about Hong Kong is there are some beautiful clothes but my large American bones do not necessarily fit. I suppose it's a good thing because these items are not at "bargain" prices.

Hong Kong Shop Front Design

2010-01-16T07:02:00.000-08:00

Spent the day walking the streets of Hong Kong admiring the different shop front designs. It was surprising to see so many stores using reclaimed materials and trash that is transformed into art.

Back in Hong Kong

2010-01-14T07:02:00.000-08:00

I have finished the first half of my three week travels. I have never walked through so many metal scanners and security check points in one week before. Indonesia is a city full of check points. One thing that has been interesting is how the security varies from country to country.

Indonesia

2010-01-13T02:38:00.001-08:00

the view from my hotel room

outside of Jakarta

Curried cow brain...yes I did eat some!

Just a few photos from Indonesia. I have spent a lot of time in the car stuck in "jams". Tomorrow it is back to Hong Kong.

Last Day in Malaysia

2010-01-09T06:43:00.000-08:00

Today was a bit of a free day before we fly to Jakarta. My manager and I were able to take a day trip to Cameron Highlands. It is about four hours outside of KL and the last hour is a two lane windy road up the mountain. It was beautiful we were able to see strawberry farms, eat some local food, and visit a tea plantation. The tea plantation was the highlight. It was amazing and very hard to capture the experience in a photo. But I leave you with a few shots from today.

Malaysia

2010-01-07T02:41:00.000-08:00

A view of Petronas towers while stuck in traffic

Fish Head Curry, No Eye balls for me!

Flight to KL

2010-01-05T05:39:00.000-08:00

The trip has continued on to Kuala Lumpur.
It was an interesting flight, today was the first time I experienced the interior of the plane being "sprayed down" before we landed. We were informed that this "spray" was safe, but if we wore contacts we should keep our eyes closed and remain closed for at least 30 seconds after. It was also suggested to cover your mouth and nose. When the announcement came on I instantly thought that these shower heads would be lowered from the ceiling and start spraying us down. Well it wasn't that at all. Basically the flight attendant walks up and down while misting the overhead compartments with the "safety" spray.
The second item I found interesting was that the in flight video screens broad casted the landing of the plane. There was a camera that was behind the front wheels so you got a birds eye view as the plane descends into the airport. I found this entertaining given the current security measures in place.

New Year New View

2010-01-04T04:20:00.001-08:00

My new year has started off with a three week business trip in Asia. First stop Hong Kong.....tomorrow it is off to Malaysia.

Holiday Appetizer

2009-12-14T12:35:00.000-08:00

I will not be hosting any holiday parties this year but if I was this would be on my list of appetizers to serve. I love the fact that this fresh mozzarella comes in sheets.

You must check out the online recipes here, the possibilities are endless.

Holiday Decorations

2009-12-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

This weekend was all about making the house feel festive. I was inspired by a table display in Macy's and thought I could do that. With a can of spray paint and a few twigs from the yard, the dining room now has some holiday flare.

The other DIY project for the weekend was a tree topper. I don't know about you but I have never liked the selection of tree toppers on the market. This year my husband and I created our own signature star.

Confession

2009-11-27T09:05:00.000-08:00

I have to admit....I love Black Friday. I look forward to getting up before the sun waiting in line...in the cold just to snatch up the door buster deals. Call me crazy but there is something exciting about the day after Thanksgiving. It is also entertaining to see people get so excited over socks while in their pajamas.

No I do not wear my pajamas shopping!

Before and After

2009-11-21T17:41:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Design*Sponge weekly before and after pics. Here is my own before and after. Keep in mind there was zero budget and I would still like to fix a few things. For now half of the unfinished basement is much more user friendly.

BEFORE

AFTER

Saturday Afternoon

2009-11-14T16:31:00.000-08:00

We are currently in the process of organizing a part of the basement into separate working zones. Laundry, drafting, wrapping/craft areas. It is a slow process as there seems to be less energy during the week to finish this project. Today I did find time to organize my mess of ribbon, wrapping paper, boxes and tissue. Since all my ribbon is loose I used old boxes and cut small holes on the side to thread the ribbon through. Keeping all the colors organized and with in easy reach.

Center of Attention

2009-11-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

Images from Sunset Magazine

With Thanksgiving approaching I thought I would share a few center piece ideas. I really like the idea of taking things right from the garden and using them on the table.

Hello November

2009-11-01T18:27:00.000-08:00

The Halloween Party was a success except that I forgot to snap photos of the set up. I leave you with the first sunset of November. Wow November already.....let the Holiday Madness begin.

Trick or Treat

2009-10-31T17:12:00.001-07:00

Stay tuned for post Halloween Party photos.

Dinner For Two

2009-10-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

After last weeks busy schedule and this week not looking any less hectic. It is time to set aside some time for a candle light dinner for two. I don't always take the time to light candles and sit down for a long dinner with my husband. We seem to always be moving quickly onto the next task. Now that fall has arrived I think it is the perfect time to pull the candles out of the cupboard and set aside some additional time to reconnect with your significant other.

VIP Room

2009-10-17T15:01:00.001-07:00

Loved the chandelier

If one must go out dancing then you need to be in the VIP room. Your own security guard, table service, birds eye view......need I say more.

KitchenAid

2009-10-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

I am not a huge fan of kitchen gadgets or accessories. Maybe it's because I am not a big cook. I do enjoy baking but don't really have a lot of baking accessories just the necessities, but the one accessory I can't live without would be my KitchenAid. I love that I can throw in some ingredients turn it on walk to the fridge grab some eggs, slowly throw them in all while the KitchenAid continues to do all the work. It is a fantastic baking sidekick and it came in my favorite color! It is a little bit of an investment but worth every penny. I was lucky enough to receive it as a wedding gift. Which brings me to a quick tip.

When it's your turn to register for your big day make sure you click as many things as possible even if you start to think you have gone mad. Two reasons A: people like choices when shopping for gifts B: most stores give great incentives on products you register for after your big day.

Birthday Dinner

2009-10-10T19:24:00.000-07:00

Today Pugnacious turned 5 or in dog years 33. Yes, we are one of those couples who celebrate our dog's birthday. There was no party but he did get to take a trip to his favorite pet store and pick up a special treat.

North for the Weekend Continued

2009-10-06T20:32:00.000-07:00

After the crazy small town fun we had on Saturday we headed south Saturday night to an art opening in Edison. The opening was at the Smith & Vallee Gallery. I don't know what I liked better the artwork or gallery space. The gallery is in a restored school house. There was beautiful wood detailing, exposed beams, original windows. Ah to have a place like that would be lovely!

North for the Weekend

2009-10-05T20:44:00.000-07:00

he did manage to stop while he pressed the cross walk signal

raspberry swirl

I spent the weekend on the border visting the in-laws. My husband grew up in the small town of Blaine. Which if anyone has been to this small town knows there is not a lot to do.

You could how ever hula hoop while crossing the street or perhaps drive your lawn mower to the corner store. But the one thing we always do when in Blaine is drive to Edaleen's dairy for some soft serve ice cream.

Fall Has Arrived

2009-09-30T20:10:00.000-07:00

Time to starting thinking about how I want to decorate my entry way for the upcoming holidays. Perhaps something other then just pumpkins.

Images from Sunset Magazine

Holiday Happy Hour

2009-09-27T17:39:00.001-07:00

This week I kicked off the holiday season early with a little food, drinks and some shopping. Thanks Mindy, for showcasing Arbonne's finest holiday items and thanks to everyone who was able to make time in their busy schedules to attend the event.

What party is complete with out a fun dessert? As many know these are my new favorite cookies. I found this recipe in Taste of Home Magazine but put my own spin on them by sandwiching two cookies together with cream cheese frosting. Enjoy!

Gooey Chocolate Cookies

8oz cream cheese

1/2 cup butter

1 egg

1tsp vanilla

1 pkg chocolate cake mix

mix together and refrigerator for 1 hour.

when ready roll d0ugh into balls and place on cookie sheet

bake at 350 for 9-11mins

Party Prep 101

2009-09-23T17:54:00.001-07:00

With an upcoming party I thought it would be fun to share some of my party planning tips.

Regardless of how large or small your party is. I find it beneficial to start all prep work a few days in advance. This allows for an easy set up come the big event.

I recommend menu planning and grocery shopping at least three days in advance. If you work a 40 hour work week like me the shopping is much easier on the weekends.

Two days before; I always dust, vacuum and clean the bathrooms. If I really have energy after all this I will set the table and put out the necessary table linens.

The day before; I recommend preparing any food that is okay to sit over night in the refrigerator. Set all the serving ware, table accessories and any decorations you might have.

The day of the event; finish the final food preparation, set table, chill drinks and wait for the guest to arrive.

Fun Find

2009-09-20T18:43:00.000-07:00

I typically don't have luck finding things in antique stores. Recently while back in my hometown I came across this fantastic teapot. It was just sitting there on a dusty old shelf waiting for me. Why was it the perfect teapot you might ask. For our wedding we had received these hand embroidered strawberry tea towels. I suppose subconsicously I was on the look out for a complementing teapot. Who knew I would find the perfect one.

Now it's time to plan an afternoon tea with friends.

Cake Complete

2009-09-17T22:01:00.000-07:00

The recipe is simple and easy to follow. The interesting thing about using an old family recipe is the lack of information that gets noted. Like how long do you cook it and at what temperature? Side note the cake taste's better with chocolate frosting. Thanks Mom!

Great Grandma Wolfe's Prune Cake

(revised recipe)

1/2 cup shortening 1/3 tsp salt

1 cup sugar 1 tsp cinnamon

2 eggs 1/2tsp clover

1 1/2 cup flour 1/2 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp baking powder 1/4 cup sour milk

1 tsp soda 1 cup pitted cooked plums

bake at 350 for 30min or until cake is done

Add chocolate frosting after cake has cooled

Picnic + Plums = Grandma Wolfe's Prune cake

2009-09-16T20:27:00.000-07:00

My Husband and I have an Italian Plum tree that has produced an overwhelming number of plums this year. We have given bags of them away as well as froze enough to last all year. Yet I still have lots of plums left. With an upcoming potluck picnic coming up I thought why not try and make my Great Grandmothers Famous Prune cake.

I reviewed the recipe and conversed with my mom this cake has turned into a two day process!

First who has sour milk in their fridge and secondly the plums have to be cooked down to bring out their natural flavors.

While the plums are cooking I am blogging. Stay tuned for a final photo of the cake.

Tip for the day milk can be soured by just adding a little vinegar.

Favorite Things

2009-09-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

For Christmas last year I received the Iousen Pot water pitcher. I love not only the sleek design of the pitcher but the use of natural charcoal for purifying the water. No more plastic filters in my house. It is the perfect table accessory for all my dinner parties.
You can get own Iousen Pot here.

The Beginning

2009-09-13T20:27:00.000-07:00

Inspired by my friends and encouraged by my husband, I bring you my blog.
As someone who enjoys hosting parties may you find inspiration for your next event.