Palo Alto, CA Area Favorites
The last few months have been quite a whirlwind! We contemplated another big move, with the choice of 2 amazing destinations – London, UK and New York City. We visited London, even toured schools, and loved it. What a fantastic adventure it would have been. But after much debate and taking everything into consideration New … Read more
RECIPE: Chocolate Raspberry Pavlova
Luscious soft whipped cream adorned with a blanket of deep red raspberries covering a delicate crisp chocolate crackle underneath all make this pavlova impossible to resist. This is a fantastic summer dessert, rich and satisfying yet simultaneously delicate and light. The chocolate pavlova contrasts the unsweetened whipped cream and fresh raspberries perfectly both in flavor … Read more
Enchanted Woodland Birthday Party
My sweet little girl turned 4 this past February and to celebrate we hosted an Enchanted Woodland party for her. While she adores everything unicorn, I felt a mainly unicorn themed party would be limiting, so we went with an enchanted woodland which allowed me to work in unicorns and much more! This was Sofie’s … Read more
Breville Tea Maker – 16 months later
I have used the Breville Tea Maker every day since my husband gave it to me Christmas 2010 and it is still going strong (every day that I haven’t been away). In fact, it is still one of my favorite Christmas presents of all time! It is so easy to use and produces the great tea which … Read more
Kid Craft: Constructing Fairy/Elf Houses
Looking for a fun and very creative way to occupy kids (and adults) at a party or gathering? How about making darling elf and fairy houses? Whether you want to believe in the little enchanted creatures or not, these houses are fun to build. I have to admit the original idea came from this lovely … Read more
Feeling Enriched, Body, Soul and Mind – Benefits of sharing homegrown and crafted bounty
You know how when kids get so excited about something that they can hardly contain it? They need to bounce and smile ear to ear? That was me this morning…before, during and after the garden share we attended. Our backyard chickens have been very productive the last few weeks with some nice weather and we’ve … Read more
RECIPE: Gingerbread Men (egg-free)
There is still time to fill your house with the heartwarming aroma of baking gingerbread men!! And here is one easy recipe for you that is egg and nut free (as usual, just be sure none of your ingredients have cross contamination warnings). The dough does need to chill in the fridge for a couple … Read more
Recipe: Irish Brown Bread
Through Irish pubs in Boston and my 2 trips to Ireland, I developed a strong love for Irish Brown Bread. You can see and taste the rustic nature of the bread. So simple yet so delicious and satisfying. On my last trip to Ireland (in 2007!) I scoured bookstores for cookbooks on Irish cooking, determined … Read more
Wine Recommendation: Chateau Montelena 2008 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
We are wine club members at the delightful Chateau Montelena in Napa Valley. A couple weeks ago we received a shipment of their 2008 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. I am in love with this wine. It would be the perfect wine for your holiday gatherings this season or simply to enjoy yourself. It’s deep, long … Read more
Simple Yet Tasty Roasted Acorn Squash
Fall has arrived and along with it delicious and comforting fall treats, such as acorn squash. Take advantage of the inexpensive fall fruit with this simple yet satisfying recipe! SIMPLE YET TASTY ROASTED ACORN SQUASH Ingredients 1 acorn squash 1 Tbs brown sugar 1 Tbs butter pinch of salt Directions Preheat oven to 450oF. Prepare … Read more
