tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11726411773085341042024-03-05T19:19:24.145-08:00M.O.M.S. HomeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-37772423331837422142012-03-12T08:36:00.000-07:002012-03-12T08:36:33.630-07:00Pots Galore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSfnZeHURTIzucQSrVKU-zgnOAkGmGqJNWpO2rZ6YcIeg52mCmUGsiqmHo67piMOEykfPcIb-rZAWa4Mqjbnezwjf7aWuLidk-yQR4Y8dtKfzGliA6hAI9MNqHt8oW-d1hAeSoKhnCIk/s1600/cookware.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRSfnZeHURTIzucQSrVKU-zgnOAkGmGqJNWpO2rZ6YcIeg52mCmUGsiqmHo67piMOEykfPcIb-rZAWa4Mqjbnezwjf7aWuLidk-yQR4Y8dtKfzGliA6hAI9MNqHt8oW-d1hAeSoKhnCIk/s320/cookware.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Finding the right pot can require real trial and error. Now days, you cannot even rely on brand names to assure you that your pot won't be second rate. Gone are the days where pots can last you a lifetime {my parents still own and use pots they received when they were married}. Unless you make the right choice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It seems most cookware brands have a 2nd or 3rd string line that may seem like a bargain....until you get it home. My suggestion is never buy a pot sight unseen. And don't be fooled by all the big names in cooking {or entertaining} who have been flooding the market with branded cookware. Just because they cook well, doesn't mean "their" pot is good. Most of them probably don't even use their own pots, they just license their name.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDXi3IOUzjCI0TXVl1A-YW-_5ybVKm2owHTWjHOVfuYLrsQbiP4MzNDO_54V14OLaG4h7U66pRfskhk7Mb1_JdBfg-J14dHW2m2P0tasbwqwVEYFRIAcKxxixvHVZUy3dfh91L9BAzt4/s1600/ALL-CLAD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisDXi3IOUzjCI0TXVl1A-YW-_5ybVKm2owHTWjHOVfuYLrsQbiP4MzNDO_54V14OLaG4h7U66pRfskhk7Mb1_JdBfg-J14dHW2m2P0tasbwqwVEYFRIAcKxxixvHVZUy3dfh91L9BAzt4/s320/ALL-CLAD.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My favorite brands are <a href="http://www.all-clad.com/">All-Clad</a> and <a href="http://m-o-m-s-home.blogspot.com/search/label/le%20cruset">Le Creuset</a>. Unfortunately, even these 2 giants in cooking now have 3rd string lines. An easy rule of thumb is to stay away from anything that is coated - anodized, non-stick. I have yet to find a non-stick or anodized line of cookware that is worthy. </span><br />
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<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/217861700694022511/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://media-cdn.pinterest.com/upload/217861700694022511_rizSliZG_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Stainless is what I use for everyday cooking. But my dream cookware is <span style="color: #b45f06;">copper</span>. <span style="color: #b45f06;">Copper </span>cookware is not only beautiful, it makes cooking delicate recipes a breeze because the heat is so evenly distributed throughout the pot or pan. The only downside is that it can be difficult to clean and can be extremely heavy.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFs3rroj7n0FLcS9MbAMCwLI23XTxlFk5YkVVUXMUr_8iC8_HRz4hWzR8CsUeADwyOsUCaCmu1DSHPyb5aKv3w_CeqBl5hGbQqLxXH7jTGZa3G6yxC3TfaZmYiTyODDntPRyW1pC0_Umc/s1600/copper+core.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFs3rroj7n0FLcS9MbAMCwLI23XTxlFk5YkVVUXMUr_8iC8_HRz4hWzR8CsUeADwyOsUCaCmu1DSHPyb5aKv3w_CeqBl5hGbQqLxXH7jTGZa3G6yxC3TfaZmYiTyODDntPRyW1pC0_Umc/s320/copper+core.jpg" width="294" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The best of both worlds is stainless with a <span style="color: #b45f06;">copper </span>core. While you don't have the beauty of <span style="color: #b45f06;">copper</span>, it's great for every day use because it cleans easily, is lighter weight but has the heat conduction of <span style="color: #b45f06;">copper</span>. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you want your cooking to start off on the right foot, start by having the right equipment..... remember it's all in the pot!</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-1631692198644582022012-02-22T19:29:00.000-08:002012-02-22T19:29:31.387-08:00Wordless Wednesday: See it. Plan it. Get it.<div style="line-height: 0px; padding-bottom: 2px;">
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-86620936127815472472011-12-20T08:41:00.000-08:002011-12-20T11:00:06.432-08:00I wish I may, I wish I might....<span style="font-size: large;">FINALLY preparing for our big move and there is so much to purchase to turn our new house into a home. I know, I know, I don't need to get everything all at once. So, to pace myself I created my "Mommy's Wishlist" on Amazon. That way I can "shop" without actually spending any money and then slowly, as my budget permits, purchase things for the new digs. Of course, if there are any fairy godmothers/fathers out there that would like to send us a housewarming gift, we wouldn't say no to that ☺</span><br />
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-40517914404835611912011-10-27T18:58:00.001-07:002011-11-23T18:57:05.132-08:00For Music Lovers Only<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.sonos.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="61" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimiCMXpg8mEPWYMoYp7nT0nLSNs0eD5fNq513mP-SKVUCpuI-PqoaUNx4arJNC2X5NxLKEa_xpdg4exb78GTO2gjC4jIi-jdFfXpogC-Vj8ZyroYZzE6Lzl08U3FkcN_VCqKpjP5GHtVQ/s200/sonos-logo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.sonos.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxqzxsa8lv6y6L4uMOhgfCp02BCCHj2VfKxiUxUEjx3tobcf1GgcniZLYsdECOYSfCxGMUUYCioYiAiRP8tEBx5MFAaVbJQXXowDwZTB8_1o_QedHNP6sWTZDOgQcrCGXeggDJYOeKpZs/s200/Sonos.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Music is such an integral part of my life and who I am. No I am not a famous musician masquerading as a wanna be blogger, I am just a huge fan of music. All kinds of music. I don't discriminate {well maybe against polka or Justin Bieber-ish music}. In fact, I really think I could piece together the soundtrack of my life {or at least the parts that I can remember}.</span><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00122PUKK/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B00122PUKK"><span style="font-size: large;">Spinners</span></a> {my very first album ever!}</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000002P75/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=B000002P75"><span style="font-size: large;">The Wiz</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000000WHH/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=B000000WHH"><span style="font-size: large;">Culture Club</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013D6LEM/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B0013D6LEM"><span style="font-size: large;">Michael Jackson</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EN1R3G/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399369&creativeASIN=B001EN1R3G"><span style="font-size: large;">Mötley Crüe</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000V6583C/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B000V6583C"><span style="font-size: large;">Guns N' Roses</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VRWS2K/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B000VRWS2K"><span style="font-size: large;">Aerosmith</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0015C3TN2/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B0015C3TN2"><span style="font-size: large;">REM</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VZKQTO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B000VZKQTO"><span style="font-size: large;">LL Cool J</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001458MLO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B001458MLO"><span style="font-size: large;">A Tribe Called Quest</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XNVS28/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=as2&camp=217145&creative=399373&creativeASIN=B000XNVS28">Jay-Z</a> </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;">Now that I am {finally} on the cusp of moving into my new home, one of my super high "wants" is a centralized audio system so that we can play music all over the house. Weelll it looks like that's not going to make it into my dream home package. But thankfully I found the next best thing......<a href="http://www.sonos.com/">Sonos</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOw7QqrNdbcAZJJRdEJeoO52ATRQhm0uVZOAJDqfwQhHUihtrEAF5KQJ-1ymDh16v6NGe8RKdMgKSybUYLAL3hJS8QmnPsmLXwE_knS1PTZXEsGQwWNakVGiXH-A7I8q0Oi8JOfvNcs-g/s1600/Sonos2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOw7QqrNdbcAZJJRdEJeoO52ATRQhm0uVZOAJDqfwQhHUihtrEAF5KQJ-1ymDh16v6NGe8RKdMgKSybUYLAL3hJS8QmnPsmLXwE_knS1PTZXEsGQwWNakVGiXH-A7I8q0Oi8JOfvNcs-g/s320/Sonos2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sonos is a wireless audio system that allows you to play music using in-home WiFi connection. You can stream music from your <a href="http://www.itunes.com/">iTunes</a> collection, mp3 collection and from a host of popular internet radio sites like Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM, Rhapsody, Napster, iHeartRadio and many others. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The great thing about it is that you can start with just one of the box-like speaker systems for your main room, and then add on additional speaker systems for other rooms as your needs increase {or you find the money!}. I love the fact that you don't have to purchase {or keep up with} a separate remote for the system. You can control the entire system and each of the zones individually, all from your computer, iPhone, iPad or other tablets and phones. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Just a few more weeks {hopefully} and I can begin choreographing the next segment of my soundtrack......what's on yours? </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-11238760564019712492011-06-10T09:18:00.001-07:002011-11-20T10:31:56.219-08:00For the love of Ramp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBhr8a0Hl-hfxGs_6E4wOFYd_UDuAmcQlclxT2QAATnjArd5PtA26y5Y58zNZnTly4C4ACxpmAVfXyHhOpiNwiJbO-2MhnghTws8xcm1W0BXu6hw1m9C8ArlMoZtcQ01HFPoM1XnpG84/s1600/Ramps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBhr8a0Hl-hfxGs_6E4wOFYd_UDuAmcQlclxT2QAATnjArd5PtA26y5Y58zNZnTly4C4ACxpmAVfXyHhOpiNwiJbO-2MhnghTws8xcm1W0BXu6hw1m9C8ArlMoZtcQ01HFPoM1XnpG84/s320/Ramps.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">For me, nothing says love like garlic and onions. Well, foodie love that is. I love love love garlic...in everything {or better yet alone and roasted!}. I think it just adds the perfect zing to almost any bland dish {i.e., sauteed spinach}. And onions -- any type of onion -- is just the proverbial cherry on top. I like them a bit crunchy, but caramelized works too. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now that you understand my love of all things garlicy and oniony, you'll understand how I excited I was to learn about an onion called Ramp. It is, in layman's terms, a cross between an onion and a garlic clove. What a culinarily powerful combination! I am just salivating thinking about the different recipes that would be transformed with this tasty addition.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Any pasta dish of course, pesto, whipped potatoes, lamb, or even in a nice spring salad! My favorite recipe that I found so fare, courtesy of the <i>Food Network</i>, is:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Baby Ramp and New Potato Soup </b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUkOtsLFtUi-5MIi0C4tWoovldmjZV6kk28M1WInTkL4b9MM7bRf7sEHloA5DBe5E1grJydIZjBxYbvtIlAjCcAFpZamEN2PrSs2KWxdJN7Jet6la8l56wJV4dQPeRZhWcI1EHXY2OFw/s1600/RampRecipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUkOtsLFtUi-5MIi0C4tWoovldmjZV6kk28M1WInTkL4b9MM7bRf7sEHloA5DBe5E1grJydIZjBxYbvtIlAjCcAFpZamEN2PrSs2KWxdJN7Jet6la8l56wJV4dQPeRZhWcI1EHXY2OFw/s200/RampRecipe.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>with Mini Truffle Grilled Cheese Sandwiches</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Ingredients</span></h2>
<ul>
<li class="ingredient">1/2 stick unsalted butter</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 pound fresh ramps, cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces</li>
<li class="ingredient">Salt</li>
<li class="ingredient">Freshly ground black pepper</li>
<li class="ingredient">1 bay leaf</li>
<li class="ingredient">3 tablespoons chopped garlic</li>
<li class="ingredient">10 cups chicken stock</li>
<li class="ingredient">2 1/2 pounds new potatoes, quartered</li>
<li class="ingredient">1/4 cup heavy cream</li>
<li class="ingredient">8 slices of Brioche bread (about 1/4-inch thick)</li>
<li class="ingredient">Small bottle of White Truffle Oil</li>
<li class="ingredient">4 slices of Chicory Farms Desoto Cheese (about 1/4-inch thick)</li>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Directions</span></h2>
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Melt the butter in a 6-quart stock pot over
medium-high heat. Add the ramps. Season with salt and black pepper.
Saute until the ramps are wilted and soft, about 6 minutes. Add the bay
leaf and garlic, stirring for 2 minutes. Add the stock and potatoes and
bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer,
uncovered, until the potatoes are very soft and the mixture is thick and
cream, about 1 hour. Remove the soup from the heat. Discard the bay
leaf. Slowly add the cream. Stir to blend. Reseason the soup. Brush each
side of the bread with the truffle oil. Place a piece of cheese on top
of four slices of the bread. Place the remaining slices of bread on top
of the cheese. Place the sandwiches on the hot griddle. Grill the
sandwiches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden and the
cheese has melted. Cut each sandwich into five finger-size slices. Serve
the sandwiches with the soup.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">©Television Food Network G.P.</span></div>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-29436160814144537872011-03-27T17:58:00.000-07:002011-03-27T17:58:33.676-07:00A mattress fit for a queen or king {literally}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiRoNfQ9IRE5K-stbsdpyD1ul0QvB7WTAf1N2CGBCUOFMvKh-1jskWY2NKDMtXNaSLsyQYqzvsSAtfryzpXh6u3quwo54xBNuykWzD7CjTyhCg8KnZABmX6T9Ip6IqUrrt6PNKziqPMpw/s320/hastens.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">I was perusing the Home & Garden section in my local paper, honing in on the list of <i>deals and steals</i> for the coming week. Most of the deals weren't really that great, or were for things I just didn't need. Then I read: <a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/">Hästens</a> is discounting some of its all-natural handmade mattresses up to 30 percent, while supplies last (the 200T II King, originally <b>$35,080</b>, is $24,556; the Luxuria Queen, regularly $10,120, is $7,084).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A $35,000 bed!?!? I know, why am I surprised. You can go big with everything else -- gold/platinum plated grooming pieces, diamond encrusted drinking glasses,<a href="http://m-o-m-s-home.blogspot.com/2011/02/swimming-pools-caviar.html"> retractable floor covered pools</a> -- why not your mattress where you go to rest and rejuvenate.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/">Hästens</a> offers beds that are truly unique; each one taking 140+ hours to build and made entirely by hand using only the finest natural materials. Your bed is made to order and signed by a Hästens master craftsman. <a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/">Hästens</a> uses use only all-natural materials in their beds; such as the finest pure flax, wool and cotton, carefully selected pine and genuine, hypoallergenic horsehair.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While currently I do not have a $35k bed in my budget, they have me sold on their beds. I MUST at least try laying on it, if not actually having one one day. They say a good night's rest is the absolute precursor to almost everything -- health, performance, mood, happiness. So why not increase your chance at a truly restful slumber by only settling for the best for where you lay your head. I'm sold!</span><br />
<br />
<i>p.s. If you can't afford one you still have a chance at a luxurious sleep! Try out a <a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/">Hästens</a> bed at any of these fine <a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/SECRETS-OF-SLEEP/Hotel/USA/">hotels</a>.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="108" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZGMVzBhjnnu8oE9Nb7Pk-3O2l_nziGcqIPFDwj7VpEm7dmJBvqOaJi1BlRGVT-lSgdKgdKdkZhQeoDfxYQ78o3Ka5ioZQVAqSGTK7Ujl-IMDbnHXHh89z4Zr88HYRbQVZI4OxjgmuPw/s200/hastens3.png" width="200" /></a></div><a href="http://www.hastens.com/en/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuZYjPNaVzeAYTZ0fxZQCie0pOTGmr2EZsfGzn-OGFuwL_OtURvsBmnVP6EDcwo8VBM125PokGUENdEmuVwauvSQL_EVVYowzVBRdazpz3uOMM0mJnRL5XR46jpYKwsqee3TSMOZHPm90/s320/hastens2.jpg" width="291" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-53293939206693018372011-03-21T11:23:00.000-07:002011-03-21T11:23:18.797-07:00From here to there in no time FLAT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbT4IKZ1vP04bN4qzrjW7wsCbxqopPsWUs35sLPXklkJivFNUFzweKFDK4zsRkNtFyN6IKdQUXXtt0sxPUgYZtHJeLzBwvTpeGT34Ei7h86e_Z2dfGwboUfVujR-PwEUO2k1bylkeL3Y8/s1600/flatrate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbT4IKZ1vP04bN4qzrjW7wsCbxqopPsWUs35sLPXklkJivFNUFzweKFDK4zsRkNtFyN6IKdQUXXtt0sxPUgYZtHJeLzBwvTpeGT34Ei7h86e_Z2dfGwboUfVujR-PwEUO2k1bylkeL3Y8/s320/flatrate.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">There's nothing sexy about moving or moving companies {well there might be something sexy about movers, but that's an entirely different blog entry}, but if you've ever had to move you understand how hard it is to find a reasonably priced professional moving company. If you chose the wrong movers, the moving process can scar you for life; leaving dark memories of broken/missing valuables, curiously misshapen boxes, men with plumbers pants who are perpetually on break, and a final bill that is a large multiple of your estimate.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have had to move way to many times in my young adult life. I've gone it alone, used friends, had a premium moving company {not my dime}, been moved by the government and only recently, researched and found a moving company for which I paid. This last time, I not only was moving an entire house, but I was moving out of state into a storage facility. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I had seen <a href="http://www.flatrate.com/">FlatRate</a>'s moving trucks around the city and I like the concept of knowing what my move was going to cost up front. I'm pretty sure only the moving company wins if the price is determined AFTER they have your stuff on the truck. The moving consultant came to our house and looked at everything we were moving, heard the details of where we were moving to, entered all the information into his handy dandy computer and printed out a detailed estimate for me right there on the spot. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Suprisingly it wasn't too bad. But of course I had to negotiate. In the end, the price was fantastic AND I knew it was final.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">On the day of my move, my moving team showed up on time and ready to work. They were all young and strong and, more importantly, focused, courteous and professional. They took such good care of my things and were in and out quicker than I thought was possible. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When they arrived on the other end, we all stood around eyeing my storage facility with disbelief. I couldn't imagine getting a truck and a half into that space. But the head mover packed that space so perfectly I even had a bit of room to spare.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Unfortunately, for some of you, <a href="http://www.flatrate.com/">FlatRate</a> is only in the New York, Los Angeles, Miami, DC and San Francisco metropolitan areas. But if you do live in one of these metropolises check <a href="http://www.flatrate.com/">them</a> out for your next move so that you {and your belongings} won't be left Flat. </span><span style="font-size: large;">☺</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95LM8eg_5IuWVlqaf1EdB7Ujzd0q0Xihl9yfudV90QO532cNtsSWN8EVfmSch5TMn1eyjWaqlKuSKMmuyy84PEz-4Wr_f_QKXwFQQR_XC7pZuAdAcVN7oIeJc9FSktQVPy_fsYxwG7wU/s1600/mover-300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi95LM8eg_5IuWVlqaf1EdB7Ujzd0q0Xihl9yfudV90QO532cNtsSWN8EVfmSch5TMn1eyjWaqlKuSKMmuyy84PEz-4Wr_f_QKXwFQQR_XC7pZuAdAcVN7oIeJc9FSktQVPy_fsYxwG7wU/s200/mover-300x225.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnscRqtXTVjumOcbmhgYPWLTOSvHv7B02IXEroCE6nohhvzmvKteEU0hStRr04mWL_D8wKEi5Ja-bpZY7p6vzqdq8QrVrTCsAO7m4CHrLQzSQxDN7LOeksgm2pCX4fujlqifF0ssalbo/s1600/bad-experience.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimnscRqtXTVjumOcbmhgYPWLTOSvHv7B02IXEroCE6nohhvzmvKteEU0hStRr04mWL_D8wKEi5Ja-bpZY7p6vzqdq8QrVrTCsAO7m4CHrLQzSQxDN7LOeksgm2pCX4fujlqifF0ssalbo/s200/bad-experience.jpg" width="200" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-80932417336740310732011-02-06T09:04:00.000-08:002011-02-06T09:04:00.221-08:00Swimming pools & caviar<span style="font-size: large;">If I had a pool {and a whoooooollllle lot of $$$$$...I mean über düber rich} this is what my pool would look like:</span><br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHo2zNWhuzJMda8zjN_pDXUZ8tkGwN-lvDUNEIKzDihZ-utBxm2Bdglv0uRpAkRGeSb1GOwVKh-M5Su5UuYDugwcp3Ev5OP_b7NT2esRWTgfh0NYWzvJOfzsBXhqq_4p4Ya9f99gOh068/s1600/Super+Luxe+Pool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHo2zNWhuzJMda8zjN_pDXUZ8tkGwN-lvDUNEIKzDihZ-utBxm2Bdglv0uRpAkRGeSb1GOwVKh-M5Su5UuYDugwcp3Ev5OP_b7NT2esRWTgfh0NYWzvJOfzsBXhqq_4p4Ya9f99gOh068/s640/Super+Luxe+Pool.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Closed for partying...I mean socializing</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8SHcqIWcHbXV00HidtdQcJMAatGxEMp_OSFAgEYX9P1sbbkLHbCalBNHG7CGqtYAWQwQonTr9MtWS83ukspvAByU4kez4rQ2H9pwSLy-lfdZ7mslTuDGlP4YoMNQTcLf6ylk43OZnrJI/s1600/Super+Luxe+Pool+%2528open%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8SHcqIWcHbXV00HidtdQcJMAatGxEMp_OSFAgEYX9P1sbbkLHbCalBNHG7CGqtYAWQwQonTr9MtWS83ukspvAByU4kez4rQ2H9pwSLy-lfdZ7mslTuDGlP4YoMNQTcLf6ylk43OZnrJI/s640/Super+Luxe+Pool+%2528open%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Open for bathing {that's what they call swimming...heehee}</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-57873652093107018412011-01-19T12:42:00.000-08:002011-01-19T12:42:13.275-08:00Wordless Wednesday...The Ultimate Spa Shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/72703/Kapalua-Bay-tropical-bathroom-hawaii" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfINYVl9f4g3tQOomeIaBeyi1J37MM2yosW0gury7eReyVJyRlEbLGXpj7cY2-Lz8_Rvl6sBRxSzgTWzkzds9LS8X9cprvDvHU_CwdodrOmpjjXoRnjgzRLmvbzcYQPHvMDiWJMQ3lko/s640/Shower.png" width="411" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-2800254951027060182011-01-13T11:20:00.000-08:002011-01-13T11:20:07.909-08:00In search of the perfect plush<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkP7eS96ir2LZuler6QJY6oaLzoSkzKimhKhNeCKJCtjqszaekOi6hNzjA9zUEaVCTm4WXMs05ySTtSut1vqhxDHRiwk2BSEPmut8t4B462PUFGGDNeZgy4rWeU_acvTDbFQvmlxW4K60/s1600/towels.tif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkP7eS96ir2LZuler6QJY6oaLzoSkzKimhKhNeCKJCtjqszaekOi6hNzjA9zUEaVCTm4WXMs05ySTtSut1vqhxDHRiwk2BSEPmut8t4B462PUFGGDNeZgy4rWeU_acvTDbFQvmlxW4K60/s400/towels.tif" width="326" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">There are only a few things I obsess over....shoes {oh yes!}, gadgets {oh iPhone, iPad, MacBook how I love thee, let me count the ways}, food {live to eat, not eat to live} and a few other things. But probably the weirdest obsession I have is with towels. Bath towels and wash cloths to be precise.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have been searching for quite a while for the perfect combination of plush, thirst and durability. A towel that starts out soft and full, soaking up water instantly, and remains that way wash after wash. I can literally walk through a store running my hands along the towels and know if they potentially have what it takes.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For a while I thought that 100% Turkish Cotton towels were what I was looking for. But unfortunately they all are not created equal and sometimes the only way to know that is to buy and wash them for a month or so. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I also thought my search was over when I found a set of Hotel Collection towels at my mother's house. I knew that they were not new, but they still felt amazing! I happened to be at a friends house who had hand towels out and after using it I knew that it too was part of Hotel Collection's line, and sure it enough it was.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Thinking my life long quest was over, I hit the internet doing a visual search for these towels. I found some that looked right so I ordered them. Unfortunately, they were wrong wrong wrong. When I took them back to the store I was told that the company discontinued the style that I was seeking and were no selling this new {lesser quality} style.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">So the search continues.....</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>{Post a comment if you have a towel brand that you love! I will try any and everything in search of plush perfection ☺}</i></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-25300910366915104912010-12-23T09:08:00.000-08:002010-12-23T09:08:10.300-08:00Sweet & Easy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWynrA7fpSpX-Q4q1JYJWbOIIPMlseoM8bXAQRjymhp8g7haPRnvMq44yZM_TmBmkYGLReu_47stQDH-5_rYaEOITKCG1OorHXzz5KEudz0NjUDXW0Ns4KTs167oldDzOrqGDNK_jqCg/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWynrA7fpSpX-Q4q1JYJWbOIIPMlseoM8bXAQRjymhp8g7haPRnvMq44yZM_TmBmkYGLReu_47stQDH-5_rYaEOITKCG1OorHXzz5KEudz0NjUDXW0Ns4KTs167oldDzOrqGDNK_jqCg/s320/cookies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The easiest sugar cookie recipe ever! No need to break out the Pillsbury dough roll when it's time to make cookies this holiday season. Try this recipe:</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b><span style="color: red;">S</span><span style="color: #274e13;">U</span><span style="color: red;">G</span><span style="color: #274e13;">A</span><span style="color: red;">R </span><span style="color: #274e13;">C</span><span style="color: red;">O</span><span style="color: #274e13;">O</span><span style="color: red;">K</span><span style="color: #274e13;">I</span><span style="color: red;">E</span><span style="color: #274e13;">S</span> <span style="color: red;">R</span><span style="color: #274e13;">E</span><span style="color: red;">C</span><span style="color: #274e13;">I</span><span style="color: red;">P</span><span style="color: #274e13;">E</span></b></u> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 cup softened butter</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 1/2 cup powdered sugar</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 egg</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 teaspoon almond extract</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> 2 1/2 cups flour</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 teaspoon cream of tartar</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-2-Quart-Ultra-Power-Empire/dp/B000UVRC64?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Mix</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000UVRC64" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> butter, sugar, egg, vanilla, almond extract until smooth.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Blend in flour, baking soda, cream of tartar.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Roll into a ball (or multiple medium size balls). Cover the ball(s) with plastic wrap and chill for 2-3 hours. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Divide dough in half and roll on a floured board or table top. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Cut out design with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Snowflake-Cookie-Cutters-Set-5/dp/B001343WNO?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">cookie cutters</a> and place each on greased <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Calphalon-Classic-Bakeware-17-Inch-Cookie/dp/B000F3V3J4?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">cookie sheet</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000F3V3J4" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bake at 375 degrees until very light brown on top.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy & Happy Holidays!</span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-55750580127309591772010-12-05T06:43:00.000-08:002010-12-05T06:44:50.108-08:00Gifts Fit For A Cook (From Houzz)<script type="text/javascript">
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<div id="hzroot6602249" style="border: 0pt none; font-size: 12px; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; text-align: center; width: 620px;"><div style="font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 3px;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/152986/list/40-Must-Haves-for-the-Kitchen--A-Gift-Guide-for-Cooks">40 Must-Haves for the Kitchen: A Gift Guide for Cooks</a></div><div style="border: 0pt none; margin: 0pt 0pt 3px; padding: 0pt;"><iframe border="0" frameborder="0" id="HouzzWidget7506706.982385367" name="HouzzWidget7506706.982385367" scrolling="NO" src="http://www.houzz.com/widgetD/query=Z2FsbGVyaWVzLzE1Mjk4Ni8/width=620/delay=1/bgcolor=ffffff/1291560242" style="border: 0pt none; height: 550px; width: 620px;"></iframe></div><div id="hzfooter6602249" style="position: relative;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Houzz</a>- <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/kitchen">Kitchen Design</a>, <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/bathroom">Bathroom Design</a> and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=1172641177308534104&postID=5575058012730959177#" onclick="return false;" onmouseout="hzwshow(6602249, false, true)" onmouseover="hzwshow(6602249, true)" style="text-decoration: underline;">More»</a></div><div style="position: relative;"><div id="hzexpand6602249" onmouseout="hzwshow(6602249, false, true)" onmouseover="hzwshow(6602249, true)" style="left: 160px; position: absolute;"><div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Home Design</a> and Decorating Ideas:</div><div id="hzsection6602249"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/kitchen">Kitchen Design</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/bathroom">Bathroom Design</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/living-room">Living Room Design</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/bedroom">Bedroom Design</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/dining-room">Dining Room Design</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/patio">Patio Design</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/landscape">Landscaping Design</a> · </div></div></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-72760888508211629302010-11-26T07:48:00.000-08:002010-11-26T07:48:56.150-08:00Food Glorious Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://editiondigital.net/publication/?i=47982" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEFplTKBdNqoXEO_3DfrjtldCns9O1K80To_JehVPTwwaVSB8V2Qi68-ZT634pWKDAbQoSqdEtugianPz74WDNicotNctOz0PEQ5FpSqy8mDFrGvx_nmE-xvs6NnKl3OCqpjPBAiR0JVw/s320/Williams-Sonoma+Thanksgiving.png" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If <a href="http://m-o-m-s-wed.blogspot.com/2010/11/bridal-mecca.html">Kleinfeld</a> is the bridal mecca, then Williams-Sonoma is most certainly the cook's mecca. Which makes it the perfect place to talk about during this month of the cooks and foodies' holiday -- Thanksgiving!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I love food, all kinds of food. So you would think that Thanksgiving would be my favorite holiday. But it's not. Well it is because of my time with my {large!} extended family, but it isn't because of the food. For some reason THAT much food just turns me off. It's too overwhelming I think. I wind up eating very little and mostly just dessert :)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If I were solely in charge of Thanksgiving dinner, I would fill it with a mixture of small plates and larger entrees that are unique twists on traditional fare. Like the <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/recipe/sausage-corn-bread-stuffing.html">Sausage-Leek Corn Bread Stuffing</a> recipe below....yummm!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Williams-Sonoma's <span id="goog_722117587"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/">Holiday Guide<span id="goog_722117588"></span></a> is a great companion for your holiday cooking plans. It's filled with delicious unique recipes and great cooking tips to make your holiday cooking quick and easy.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy and eat well! </span> <br />
<br />
<span id="goog_2113763676" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/recipe/sausage-corn-bread-stuffing.html">SAUSAGE-LEEK CORN BREAD STUFFING</a><br />
<b> </b></span><br />
<span id="goog_2113763676" style="font-size: large;"><b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3 Tbs. unsalted butter<br />
1 yellow onion, diced<br />
3 celery stalks, diced<br />
2 cups thinly sliced leeks, white and light green portions<br />
1 Tbs. chopped fresh sage<br />
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste<br />
1 1/2 lb. mild Italian sausage, casings removed<br />
1 package (1 lb.) <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/la-brea-bakery-cornbread-stuffing-mix/">La Brea Bakery corn bread stuffing</a><br />
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley<br />
4 garlic cloves, roasted, peeled and smashed into a pulp<br />
3 to 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, warmed</span></span><br />
<span id="goog_2113763676" style="font-size: large;"><br />
<b>Directions:</b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Preheat an oven to 375°F. Butter a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/CorningWare-French-White-3-Quart-Oblong/dp/B00080XG8A?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">3-quart baking dish</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00080XG8A" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />. <br />
<br />
In a large fry pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onion, celery, leeks, sage, salt and pepper and sauté, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer the onion mixture to a very large bowl. <br />
<br />
In the same pan over medium-high heat, cook the sausage, breaking it into large chunks, until browned and cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to the bowl with the onion mixture, add the stuffing and parsley, and stir until well combined. <br />
<br />
In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk the garlic into the broth until combined. Stir the broth mixture into the stuffing 1/2 cup at a time, making sure it is completely absorbed into the croutons and does not pool in the bottom of the bowl. Taste a crouton; it should be moist throughout but not crunchy or mushy. You may not need all of the broth. <br />
<br />
Transfer the stuffing to the prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking until the top is golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes more. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serves 10 to 12.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Williams-Sonoma Kitchen.</span></i><br />
</span> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-28407783261244299442010-11-21T18:31:00.001-08:002010-12-08T19:48:21.737-08:00Artsy Smartsy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artsycouture.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrr0ugKNj5sxslddpaLy-SDd4PN5fMO7-AM2-QT7RzlrtFGhqSFmDAKh5UlEby7UKLvzTsMRWnWD6ZlWWpeVTD-VYblVdzxP_hBZ1-Kh_07G95ADAc_ifeU8QOExoWYvolTzDbSWVbfr4/s200/Artsy.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://www.artsycourture.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNTquALZADZ9JgOsKmgpprsdCa68YYUycnHj516t2xG5P1DaymLmL06H2wzWv9Sg2gPKUwluCV2iBTqBhgKkJ01Sf4vRilMFauzngpH8rrKZG31rmkXOL1UeYrqiRtrZgciDpqOUN5tUY/s200/ArtsyLogo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">I LOVE taking pictures. In fact, I think I'm even some of my friends and family members' unofficial official family photographer. Thanks to the digital camera revolution I can just snap away all the time without any additional cost. I don't get paid, but I don't mind. Because the photographic storybook that I have is irreplaceable. {That's why I have it backed up in 2 separate places!}</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But that's not the topic of this post. When you take as many pictures as I do, it really is a waste unless you have some way to see them and use them. Photo albums are great --- LOVE <a href="http://www.mypublisher.com/">MyPublisher</a> for that -- but unless you have lots of coffee tables, you won't be pulling them off the shelves often. Framed photos are wonderful too, but they can get a little boring and predictable. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://artsycouture.com/">Artsy Couture</a> has a fabulous alternative to the average framed photographs -- Gallery Blocks! Gallery Blocks are "professional photographic prints adhered to solid wood with perfect 90° corners." They come in both single sizes and multiple floating images {like the one in the picture above}. The floating blocks are my favorite because it's so hard to choose just one!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbYjZ94eFxBCx786J5QgXqNz0Y66_zndESX_3ZdME6xV02pHG3Kwt3Hz4Ytn3MyrcdfGSTsPDdLToN-MDXK_0r5UEUGVb3INOGW-4Kyr-2hQBmN_Mt7ef1hcAjCY0oBski-vR6OhSzGE/s1600/Artsyblock2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbYjZ94eFxBCx786J5QgXqNz0Y66_zndESX_3ZdME6xV02pHG3Kwt3Hz4Ytn3MyrcdfGSTsPDdLToN-MDXK_0r5UEUGVb3INOGW-4Kyr-2hQBmN_Mt7ef1hcAjCY0oBski-vR6OhSzGE/s400/Artsyblock2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-75452895733557215382010-11-08T16:42:00.000-08:002010-11-09T08:19:35.699-08:00Cover Your Alcove<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://casartcoverings.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihR0f015Vhq7rATxlVpo_vTd2wxnRH4XcM2zHXGl8miR-Ifxy5dqXMmpOE-Pu4QznLJ3hTSheNKZ3et5gfQ3ouaap2s5oO8yb5N0zjcThWYv9uAU9KZvGayviaRGZ4INKpBdwlww9rIOI/s400/Casart+Covering.png" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">I admit, sometimes it is difficult for me to make a decision. Especially about things that either cannot be changed or would be costly/time-consuming to change. I think about what-ifs. What if I hate it later. What if it goes out of style. What if I find something better!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It took me forever to decide on my <a href="http://m-o-m-s-wed.blogspot.com/2010/09/my-favorite-designer.html">wedding dress</a>. I went back and forth between two dresses until I just went with my gut. It turned out wonderfully. I was happy and until this day I have no regrets. In fact, I think I would have regretted going with the other dress. But I digress...</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When you're redecorating or decorating your home, there's always this tension between decorating based on what's popular at the moment --- like wood paneling of the 60s or the black and white & abstract art style of the 80s -- and decorating and painting with a future sale {or your future taste} in mind. Considering I've bought and sold more houses in my young life than I care to think about, I'm always thinking about "what happens when we sell?" as I am designing. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But who wants non-offending various shades of beige walls throughout their house? {Been there don't want to do that again} That's why I love LOVE my latest find <a href="http://www.casartcoverings.com/">Casart<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>tm</sup></span> Coverings</a>. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.casartcoverings.com/">Casart<span style="font-size: small;"><sup>tm</sup></span> Coverings</a></span><span style="font-size: large;"> are removable hand-painted murals and decorative finishes. The murals are printed on canvas-like vinyl with a repositionable, adhesive backing. Essentially "Magnet-like slipcovers for your walls"! You can change your wall covering <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/43868/Red-Decor-eclectic-dining-room-dc-metro">seasonally</a> or whenever you want a new look! But without the usual paste and mess of traditional wallpaper. I'm soooo getting some of these.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<center><br />
<div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/43864/Pink-Designs-modern-bedroom-other-metros"><img alt="Pink Designs modern bedroom" border="0" height="400" src="http://st.houzz.com/simages/43864_0_8-3694-modern-bedroom.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444;"><small><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/modern/bedroom" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">modern bedroom design</a> by <a href="http://www.houzz.com/professionals/showroom/dc-metro" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">dc metro showroom</a> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/professionals/5166/Casart-Coverings" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Casart Coverings</a></small></div></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-63438307023690680532010-10-31T10:33:00.000-07:002010-10-31T18:37:42.629-07:00Apple Pie, Apple Crisp, Apple Jacks, Apple Sauce, Apple Muffins, Apple....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3DC0P0f2sxBC8XJJMg7wNUxsOVRLzqv9JgfF4wrK78kxAGT6caVWbhk9JFo2L7TznuCERpCHkStLSFQbDbOZ5Jjjk6KzbuzTP_-Uu__Q1kqNvmxj4MfXL7Xm28B034wge2AlccgbUWE/s1600/big+apple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3DC0P0f2sxBC8XJJMg7wNUxsOVRLzqv9JgfF4wrK78kxAGT6caVWbhk9JFo2L7TznuCERpCHkStLSFQbDbOZ5Jjjk6KzbuzTP_-Uu__Q1kqNvmxj4MfXL7Xm28B034wge2AlccgbUWE/s400/big+apple.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">If you didn't know already, it is <span style="color: red;">A</span><span style="color: #660000;">P</span><span style="color: red;">P</span><span style="color: #660000;">L</span><span style="color: red;">E</span> Season! Apple picking, bobbing for apples, all kinds of apples on sale. So if you go apple picking, or win a bushel of apples at a fair, or just can't resist a sale --- what to do with all of those apples {see a pic of our deep deep sink at the end of a day of apple picking below}.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzwDmP75AoeA4c5uG8yzO7tiS0Tb1bePby7ZkM1SkHmKVlNsd5TXs87Zy8wy8kl2RMHeLIv7B2DP2wy6oml3R9XquMV3UbgP2PsbeJHa9fqGzvKAYaOfzKDdONRwsRBp2iNX8uvBcfvQ/s1600/DSC_0293.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzwDmP75AoeA4c5uG8yzO7tiS0Tb1bePby7ZkM1SkHmKVlNsd5TXs87Zy8wy8kl2RMHeLIv7B2DP2wy6oml3R9XquMV3UbgP2PsbeJHa9fqGzvKAYaOfzKDdONRwsRBp2iNX8uvBcfvQ/s320/DSC_0293.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">The easiest use for a whole bunch of apples at one time is to make apple sauce. It's really easy and you don't even need a recipe. First you <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pinzon-Apple-Potato-Peeler-Slicer/dp/B001CGMKAE?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">peel</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001CGMKAE" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> the apples {or keep the skin on as I like to do so that you get all the fiber along with all of the sugar} then slice them in medium size slices. Slice around the core, of course, or -- if you are lucky and have one of these <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BYR292?tag=moch05-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B000BYR292&adid=1Z74493JFEFWNFT0MCW7">apple core gadgets</a> -- first core the apples, then slice them. Add lots and lots of apple slices to a deep stock pot, then add cinnamon and nutmeg to taste. You can also add a little sugar if you need it, but most apples are pretty sweet on their own. Turn the pot on low, cover and let the apples cook on low for a long long long time {that's technical kitchen jargon there} stirring every now and then to keep the apples from sticking. You'll know they are done basically when the apples start looking like apple sauce! Don't over cook because I don't know what apples turn into after that :-O</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If this doesn't sound easy {or appetizing} to you, try this delicious recipe:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Cinnamon Apple Crisp</b><br />
<i>Bon Appétit</i> | March 1993<br />
by Fran Love Taylor: Raleigh, North Carolina<br />
Yield: Serves 10<br />
<br />
1 cup firmly packed golden brown sugar<br />
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon<br />
3 1/2 pounds Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, sliced<br />
<br />
1 cup all purpose flour<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
1 cup (2 sticks) chilled unsalted butter, cut into pieces<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 450°F. Butter 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish. Combine brown sugar and cinnamon in large bowl. Add apples and toss to coat. Transfer apple mixture to prepared dish.<br />
<br />
Combine flour, 1 cup sugar and butter in medium bowl. Using pastry blender or fingertips, blend ingredients until coarse meal forms. Spread flour mixture evenly over apples.<br />
<br />
Bake crisp 20 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Bake crisp until apples are tender and topping is golden brown, about 30 minutes. Let stand 15 minutes before serving.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Epicurious.com © Condé Nast Digital, Inc. All rights reserved.</span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-4925416152043658922010-10-20T06:54:00.000-07:002010-10-20T06:54:21.474-07:00Smart TV<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040QE98O?tag=moch05-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B0040QE98O&adid=1H558M8RVYT61MGFW1CD" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfikfCOKJNb4Jc3rDuxXMkCaxo1bVwynXXAno2DpwdoqtTD1ABgXTKuu-OGCTkUpjtWpMtEsbePdBrn9aeHD2MaT2WQHWYHGZdJI10NUfeHYwTUNOvYVD51OfJEv4UDAbl748yBwtttSY/s640/Amazon+Video+On-Demand.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cable/Satellite TV is sooooo 2000s. Even DVR is becoming a bit irrelevant. Every show {and movie when I have time} that I watch is available on the network's website, and with limited commercial interruptions. So tell me again why I am paying Verizon a billion dollars a month for Fios {oh yeah for football/sports that's why...smh}?!? But seriously, if I could easily get the internet on my TV and watch it with limited connectivity issues, I would totally switch. I don't think we're truly there yet, but we're close. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Google now offers <a href="http://www.google.com/tv/">Google TV</a> {and Apple has been offering Apple TV for some time now, but to little fanfare}. I love everything Google so I had to check it out. It seems like all that you need is a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040QE98O?tag=moch05-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B0040QE98O&adid=1H558M8RVYT61MGFW1CD">Logitech Revue Companion Box</a> or something similar, and an internet connection {and a TV of course} and you're good to go!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Amazon is also offering <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FVideo-On-Demand%2Fb%3Fie%3DUTF8%26node%3D16261631&tag=moch05-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957">Amazon Video</a> which allows you to "rent" movies and TV shows on demand. You can access this using Google TV or even straight from your laptop.<br />
<br />
While the price tag is a bit high -- $299 for the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040QE98O?tag=moch05-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B0040QE98O&adid=1H558M8RVYT61MGFW1CD">Logitech</a> -- think of all the money you'll save not paying for cable every month and it will quickly pay for itself. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I haven't tried it yet, but I'm itching to. I would LOVE to stop paying Verizon all that money for practically nothing every month. My only worry is that accessing your TV over a wireless network may get a bit annoying.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-18474228519639040642010-10-13T16:34:00.000-07:002010-10-23T08:58:38.189-07:00Houzz It Look?<style type="text/css">
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<div id="hzfooter7597513"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Houzz</a>- <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/kitchen">Kitchen Design</a>, <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/bathroom">Bathroom Design</a> and <a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=1172641177308534104#" onclick="return false;" onmouseout="document.getElementById("hzexpand7597513").style.display="none";" onmouseover="document.getElementById("hzexpand7597513").style.display="block";" style="text-decoration: underline;">More»</a><br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">I love love LOVE this site! We are in the process of moving and will hopefully be building a house and this site is the perfect place for me to look for and collect design ideas. I still enjoy leafing through magazines, but if you're going to do multiple spaces {or a whole house!} the cutting and collecting can be a bit overwhelming and cumbersome.</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Houzz</a> has some great design ideas AND you can add your own. Just install the browser <a href="http://www.houzz.com/getButton">plug-in</a>. So if your browsing the web and come across a picture of a space that looks great, you can add it to the <a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Houzz</a> Community {and your ideabook}. </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The feature I like best is the ability to search by geographical area. I assume what that does is to show you designs for houses in your area of the country. For instance, while I would love a full outdoor kitchen and an open sunroom off my living room, I don't think that will work in the northeast {do those palm trees come with the stone patio?!?}. You can also search by style -- traditional, contemporary, eclectic, farm, etc. -- and by the room in your home -- kitchen, bath, bedroom, etc.</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Here's a link to my <a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/castelly">Ideabook</a>...it's a work in progress :) </span></div><br />
<br />
</div></div><div id="hzexpand7597513" onmouseout="document.getElementById("hzexpand7597513").style.display="none";" onmouseover="document.getElementById("hzexpand7597513").style.display="block";" style="margin-left: 180px;"><div><a href="http://www.houzz.com/">Decorating Ideas</a> and Photos:</div><div id="hzsection7597513"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/kitchen">Kitchen Remodeling</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/bathroom">Bathroom Remodeling</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/living-room">Living Room Remodeling</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/bedroom">Bedroom Remodeling</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/dining-room">Dining Room Remodeling</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/patio">Patio Remodeling</a> · <a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/landscape">Landscaping Remodeling</a> · </div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-9307069613465678932010-10-05T11:31:00.000-07:002010-10-05T11:34:09.352-07:00You MADE that?!?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtOMVMcuWuioGIZoe1MTHTq7TYFE3XMMSWTZfHNss78FtAMgGOWBYga1bmO05T67Gi2bUeEexkP2vms1BF7SLJWeKKWDwNIoRFDrj9CKBzplVnxl20HxDcfd3E8vi1ZnHva7lS7Ajh5s/s1600/Lamb+penne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtOMVMcuWuioGIZoe1MTHTq7TYFE3XMMSWTZfHNss78FtAMgGOWBYga1bmO05T67Gi2bUeEexkP2vms1BF7SLJWeKKWDwNIoRFDrj9CKBzplVnxl20HxDcfd3E8vi1ZnHva7lS7Ajh5s/s320/Lamb+penne.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">I love to eat and love to cook on special occasions. But now that I am home with the kids I feel obligated to cook almost every night. So I'm always on the lookout for delicious easy/quick recipes {i.e., does not require chopping up 10 different ingredients}. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This recipe fits the bill, it's delicious <b>and</b> it tastes much more fancy than it is. The feta adds a nice twist and the secret ingredient is the cinnamon. I had no idea that cinnamon could create this flavor {cinnamon and lamb? trust me you will like it}. You can add your own twist to it as well. I prefer rotini pasta to penne and instead of parsnips, I use portabello mushrooms. Love it. But anyway you slice it, this is a dish that is sure to impress anyone you make it for.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">____________________________</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #274e13;">Greek-Style Penne with Lamb, Parsnips, Tomatoes, and Cinnamon</span><br />
<i>Bon Appétit | November 2009</i></b><br />
by The Bon Appétit Test Kitchen<br />
Pasta in the Greek style, with an added surprise: parsnips.<br />
Yield: Makes 6 servings<br />
Active Time: 30 minutes<br />
Total Time: 45 minutes<br />
<br />
2 tablespoons olive oil<br />
1 very large onion, halved through root end, cut lengthwise into 1/3-inch-thick slices (about 4 cups)<br />
12 ounces medium parsnips (about 4), peeled, cut on slight diagonal into 1/4-inch-thick slices<br />
4 garlic cloves, minced<br />
8 ounces ground lamb<br />
1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon<br />
2 14 1/2-ounce cans diced tomatoes in juice<br />
12 ounces penne<br />
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley<br />
Crumbled feta cheese<br />
<br />
Heat oil in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and parsnips and sauté until slightly softened and deep golden brown around edges, about 9 minutes. Add garlic; stir 1 minute. Add lamb and sautéuntil no longer pink, breaking up with back of spoon, about 2 minutes. Stir in cinnamon. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add tomatoes with juice; bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until parsnips are tender, about 12 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water until just tender but still firm to bite, stirring occasionally. Drain, reserving 1 cup cooking liquid. Return pasta to pot. Add lamb mixture and enough cooking liquid to moisten; toss. Add parsley. Transfer to plates and sprinkle with feta.</span><br />
<br />
Epicurious.com © Condé Nast Digital, Inc. All rights reserved.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-36323259200215895582010-09-25T11:11:00.000-07:002010-09-25T11:11:37.075-07:00It's the little things<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flowerbud.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnoUxJDINQ1LMkaH_OtPJ-hHCXq549akf40raC_uKKY385Qzhmo5wMcYAp49nnJmLs6flI7G6YUaAVjJdtnLNYX6pbrwOGJ-Z5yikE5JaI4hFbVnPSQS2PEv-OhwNbF46wkJW5xwE7eM0/s1600/flowers.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">There's nothing more perfect than the smell of fresh cut flowers in your home. Now imagine having this smell 365 days a year! <a href="http://flowerbud.com/">Flowerbud.com</a> {my favorite flower vendor outside of Flower St. in NYC} will send you fresh cut seasonal flowers every other week all year long. It's the perfect little touch to make your home always feel special {and of course show up the competitive ladies in your circle}.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you can't afford to have fresh cut flowers all year round, you can afford to splurge every now and then and grace your home with the exotic smell of <a href="http://www.flowerbud.com/flower-market-cat/lilies-cat/conca-d-or-lilies-5.html">Conca D'Or lilies</a> or the lush beauty of <a href="http://www.flowerbud.com/flower-market-cat/view-all-cat/peonies.html">pink peonies</a>.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVf8xC36ntJCcYeJw4c-iOov-l4o9xgn-KkH1hhNvOs2BRag1bp9gXteYkn04NhArJqA7GU4I9K_zDePAVaz66v2G4Vu_wLnGsPBum0ENMlZhgt8eqgY09uziM6C-Ns3P-LeO86-WNLM/s1600/peonies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvVf8xC36ntJCcYeJw4c-iOov-l4o9xgn-KkH1hhNvOs2BRag1bp9gXteYkn04NhArJqA7GU4I9K_zDePAVaz66v2G4Vu_wLnGsPBum0ENMlZhgt8eqgY09uziM6C-Ns3P-LeO86-WNLM/s320/peonies.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-27755613842249171492010-09-21T17:50:00.000-07:002010-09-21T17:50:08.635-07:00This isn't your mother's "wallpaper"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.jonathanfongstyle.com/decor/wallpanels.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieFU0dkm72WaFntkJYpqKOpdcKuPDEBP8yOKeFTQ7c-x4Ku98RAviebGP6RReRcaiH5wRRSaoP8zgsU0hM8ZMcxQachDKzH3I83EnyGXspbkJEc0LDzNU5mKutP13nVID-HvNnoEKMHw0/s400/fabric_a3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">I love staying in hotels {well 5 Star hotels}. Outside of the daily maid service and food on demand, I think I love the plush bed with the big snuggly pillows. It just makes you want to lay down and relax your entire trip. I've tried a lot of different things to make my room at home as comfy. A big fluffy down comforter, 5 kazillion feather pillows, and 1000+ count sheets. Still just isn't the same.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Now this idea from <a href="http://www.jonathanfongstyle.com/decor/wallpanels.html">jonathan fong style</a> may get me a step closer. Fluffy fabric wall panels! You can pick your own fabric styles -- fake fur, ruched satin, luxurious cotton quilted -- combined but all in white {or another color of your choice}. Each fabric style is stretched around a foam core and attached to your wall in a grid pattern with Velcro. So if you get tired of it and want a new look it's easy to change. Now this is a DIY project I can get behind.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6Fs5Jy33sCMqWgH2Sou7TnNKY2-XwQboi5nRi3l_UnzNE78JtIQEH5EDWeI6XyIAt2xE6DuDq_4tlVVKNlHYuXNztGbYBsTBlHtiZk0A8mYk8CrHrkXgjNq1MLObTNNwq2JCa08GOP4/s1600/fabric_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6Fs5Jy33sCMqWgH2Sou7TnNKY2-XwQboi5nRi3l_UnzNE78JtIQEH5EDWeI6XyIAt2xE6DuDq_4tlVVKNlHYuXNztGbYBsTBlHtiZk0A8mYk8CrHrkXgjNq1MLObTNNwq2JCa08GOP4/s320/fabric_2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyfWa18HGKJ9NoX0MYCI4GWX_9NBjCshbs86rRMSfyf-YkD61HFLItxK8pGf5eSpvfHProVGEC2eLF1SuPaS3Clkd2KKmWR_pJQBOLOV7rZ8oR4sQjLopBaC2JNd6s7sBqcatCyght7w/s1600/fabric_a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKyfWa18HGKJ9NoX0MYCI4GWX_9NBjCshbs86rRMSfyf-YkD61HFLItxK8pGf5eSpvfHProVGEC2eLF1SuPaS3Clkd2KKmWR_pJQBOLOV7rZ8oR4sQjLopBaC2JNd6s7sBqcatCyght7w/s320/fabric_a1.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-74048168896984505032010-09-14T08:52:00.000-07:002012-03-12T08:35:56.870-07:00It's All In The Pot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZP1ZZYOuyH8UgtyeP0178JH-mhAfBsmzvxhr0iWMyswYDYr7k1BVefEFFi3J8hmEWSaUIjCZdGrcqL3brf5YiBLxbIJqLcjMXeQUHZ9JEcgK7oUTO32uEjAbBd9WCPmYgph-RzZnkUR0/s1600/le-creuset-teal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZP1ZZYOuyH8UgtyeP0178JH-mhAfBsmzvxhr0iWMyswYDYr7k1BVefEFFi3J8hmEWSaUIjCZdGrcqL3brf5YiBLxbIJqLcjMXeQUHZ9JEcgK7oUTO32uEjAbBd9WCPmYgph-RzZnkUR0/s320/le-creuset-teal.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>L<span style="color: lime;">e</span> <span style="color: #351c75;">C</span><span style="color: #76a5af;">r</span><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: blue;">e</span>u</span><span style="color: #ffd966;">s</span><span style="color: orange;">e</span><span style="color: magenta;">t</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I love cooking, but if you're doing it every day it can become a little mundane. That's why it helps to have cute professional-looking cookware to give you a boost. What more could you ask for than cookware that coordinates with your kitchen decor. <a href="http://www.lecreuset.com/">Le Creuset</a> comes in so many amazingly vibrant colors {<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-Stoneware-Petite-Casserole-Caribbean/dp/B000Q5RB06?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">teal</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000Q5RB06" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-Round-French-Magnet-Cassis/dp/B003F24CVS?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">purple</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003F24CVS" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-Enamel-6-Quart-Stockpot-Caribbean/dp/B000Q5VXB4?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">sky blue</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000Q5VXB4" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-Enameled-Cast-Iron-2-Quart-French/dp/B0012S4RS0?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">yellow</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0012S4RS0" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-Orange-7-25-Round-French/dp/B003879PLC?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">orange</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003879PLC" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-Stoneware-2-Inch-Rectangular-Baking/dp/B000FIXE5A?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">green apple</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000FIXE5A" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" />} but of course my favorite is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-L2501-28-67-Enameled-Cast-Iron-4-Quart/dp/B00004SBHA?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">red</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00004SBHA" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> cookware. But I'm becoming a little partial to the eggplant purple color {see below}.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The cookware also pairs lovely with the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00005UP2K?tag=moch05-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B00005UP2K&adid=11KD5A7TDJVYCA11HHET">KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer</a>. And of course they are great to cook with. The cast iron cookware distributes heat evenly and because it can go from the stovetop to the oven, you can cook certain recipes all in one pot keeping the flavors from being washed away or left behind. Like in this delicious dish:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Moroccan Lamb Stew</b></u><br />
Ingredients:<br />
4 Tbs. olive oil<br />
2 yellow onions, finely chopped<br />
3 carrots, peeled and chopped<br />
3 lb. cubed lamb for stewing<br />
1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour<br />
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste<br />
3 garlic cloves, minced<br />
1 tsp. ground cumin<br />
1⁄4 tsp. saffron threads<br />
1 Tbs. peeled and minced fresh ginger<br />
2 1⁄2 cups beef stock<br />
1 cup canned crushed tomatoes<br />
1 cup chopped dried dates<br />
Grated zest and juice of 1 orange<br />
2 Tbs. finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Directions</b>:<br />
Preheat an oven to 350°F. <br />
<br />
In a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Creuset-L2501-28-67-Enameled-Cast-Iron-4-Quart/dp/B00004SBHA?ie=UTF8&tag=moch05-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Dutch oven</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=moch05-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B00004SBHA" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important; padding: 0px ! important;" width="1" /> over medium heat, warm 1 Tbs. of the olive oil. Add the onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots and cook until slightly softened, about 3 minutes more. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.<br />
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Pat the lamb dry with paper towels. Place the flour in a large bowl or sealable plastic bag and season with salt and pepper. Add the lamb in batches and stir or shake to coat thoroughly with the seasoned flour.<br />
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Warm the remaining 3 Tbs. oil in the pot over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid crowding, add the lamb and brown on all sides, 4 to 5 minutes for each batch. Transfer to a bowl and set aside. <br />
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Return the onion mixture and the lamb along with any accumulated juices to the pot. Add the garlic, cumin, saffron and ginger and stir to coat the meat and vegetables. Add the stock and bring to a boil, stirring with a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the pan bottom. Add the tomatoes, dates, and orange zest and juice and bring to a boil over high heat. <br />
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Cover the pot, transfer to the oven and bake until the meat is tender, 1 1/2 to 2 hours. If the sauce seems too thin, using a slotted spoon, transfer the meat and vegetables to a bowl and boil the sauce on the stovetop until thickened. Return the meat and vegetables to the pot. Taste and adjust the seasonings. <br />
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Transfer the stew to a serving bowl and garnish with the parsley. Serve immediately. Serves 6.<br />
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Adapted from Williams-Sonoma Collection Series, Soup & Stew, by Diane Rossen Worthington (Simon & Schuster, 2004).</span></i></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2rVaePvF0y9083lr48rr5py_PMnL-bnOKbfch4HdvtpddOhRrXbFEF1u7nVWrT7NyJCqLBTqIFRSjDTKeumiNGMMFUMgeet9ap8GdEjwFxeWoV8Y_hXqa5T9M3KFmbzYslYUuYbP2h8/s1600/le_creuset_singapore_sale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2rVaePvF0y9083lr48rr5py_PMnL-bnOKbfch4HdvtpddOhRrXbFEF1u7nVWrT7NyJCqLBTqIFRSjDTKeumiNGMMFUMgeet9ap8GdEjwFxeWoV8Y_hXqa5T9M3KFmbzYslYUuYbP2h8/s320/le_creuset_singapore_sale.jpg" /></a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-17460427430156893662010-09-09T19:01:00.000-07:002010-09-11T13:39:42.433-07:00Culinary Delights<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00196R9PI?tag=moch05-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B00196R9PI&adid=0H7CAVJHXJHY7NYNN1XH&" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLw1mQAB9GqkPHL1gD1zvMqpXupqjsxJJ46baWpNpIL4e-bwvyeMnfZNQ9237xVa-lc-Cd6IifjK0m8vRVkAvYicXKKdGG56kewTkukkoRwebvT070HF19WvJkdkBUIzbSB4JaRRpefYU/s200/VeggiChop.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>VeggiChop</b></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I love to cook but I would love it more if I have my own <i>sous chef</i>. It seems that every healthy, but delicious, recipe I want to make calls for endless chopped veggies or minced garlic or chopped herbs. The chopping alone seems to take me hours and it makes cooking wholly unenjoyable. So I was so excited to find this quintessential addition to any kitchen. The <a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00196R9PI?tag=moch05-20&camp=213381&creative=390973&linkCode=as4&creativeASIN=B00196R9PI&adid=0H7CAVJHXJHY7NYNN1XH&">VeggiChop</a> is completely manual {no batteries, no plugs} and has only a few parts. And better yet, everything is dishwasher safe! The pull action, while manual, is so fun you can even enlist your kids to chop for you {or count it as an upper body workout}.<b> </b></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-25465832295797178102010-09-08T15:37:00.000-07:002010-09-09T18:03:52.394-07:00D.I.Y. {or have someone else do it}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrsandless.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSmynlYGrzaK169sdgYOjA40ODQiDIBB4m9zEgjFosCLCRmG-QcMBYGSGmxmPbCdIoSJxquOF48ek3T4R5NIq31uB9cGeASjHhF8w_YGH2jldAEhKiY3pSYJXlMZFAGnUTOJ3cFYiNJu0/s400/sandlesslogo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mrsandless.com/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk7WSs85Rbtj-CWsSKqn8CudbZG4EpfESa8v-ofPUnyAIYnfyyycVzfsRbIB-aBiIRQEBDCtFbqBN5T5kCZcPIdUWJistg9ov16eLpZs5FTRgJglVOvCbR3bhu1CtPt_XIOJPE3tHjrU8/s200/sandless.png" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;">Not many people are flipping houses today -- which would make this economical way to refinish hardwood floors a great find if you were -- but we are still in a reces... um I mean, economically-challenging time. That's why when we decided to pull up all the carpet</span><span style="font-size: large;"> in our new home</span><span style="font-size: large;"> and expose the wood floors underneath, we called <a href="http://www.mrsandless.com/">Mr. Sandless</a>. We had a newborn and were anxious to move-in quickly, and the thought of all the dust from, and the long process of, refinishing our floors the traditional way was just too much for us. In my search of an alternative I found <a href="http://www.mrsandless.com/">Mr. Sandless</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Two guys came out and in one day they had completely transformed our floors from spotted, dull and motley, to gleaming new looking wood flooring. Three years and two kids later, our floors still look fantastic!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1172641177308534104.post-80504032542849766582010-09-07T15:17:00.000-07:002010-09-09T18:04:32.058-07:00Shhhhh....Mommy's sleeping<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">shi shu blankets</span></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkKYyA7Eku8AYbKjhXBu74TXKI_57bkt-FszdnoMFYC52m1SXZZdhoxQF9jkA8sp4pvL6BddBDe0beqv9Xd5V6SuL1zBaWHPFrtaqQevBW264ONUzvkFuAb8nk_eNGf3L70nestDL4DE/s1600/shi_shu_blanket+home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkKYyA7Eku8AYbKjhXBu74TXKI_57bkt-FszdnoMFYC52m1SXZZdhoxQF9jkA8sp4pvL6BddBDe0beqv9Xd5V6SuL1zBaWHPFrtaqQevBW264ONUzvkFuAb8nk_eNGf3L70nestDL4DE/s400/shi_shu_blanket+home.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I first learned of these blankets when I found their baby blankets at <a href="http://www.giggle.com/">Giggle</a> {here's a <a href="http://m-o-m-s-baby.blogspot.com/2010/09/shhhh.html">link</a> to my post on <a href="http://m-o-m-s-baby.blogspot.com/2010/09/shhhh.html">M.O.M.S. Baby</a>}. I initially picked up the baby blanket because it was pretty. But when I finally pulled it out to pre-wash it before my second little one was born, I felt it for the first time and fell in love! It was the softest baby blanket I had ever felt {and I am always on the lookout for the perfect baby blanket...thus, I have TONS}. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I looked up the company I was so excited to see that they made an adult size version! The throws are made of 60% cotton and 40% bamboo. The bamboo is what makes these throws so luxurious. {I hear they even made it into the gift bags at the Golden Globes last year!} These are the perfect throw for cuddling up with on a chilly fall night.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12708075250083593093noreply@blogger.com0