Many years ago, my brother and his little family came out for a visit. While here, we took a trip to the Muir Woods, a state park north of San Francisco. The Red Woods are one of my most favorite places to explore. I love hiking through the calm, majestic trails. The tranquility always opens…
Last year, I went in search of kid friendly meals. I questioned my friends to find out what they were serving their little ones. This is a favorite of my friend Brooke Ward. 1 cup Rice 2 cups water, plus two bullion cubes or use chicken broth in the place of water and bullion Chicken…
I came across this recipe in a magazine a couple of years ago. I love how simple it is to make. 1/2 tsp or more ground cumin Salt, to taste 3 cups chopped rotisserie chicken 2 limes, quartered 1 head of Romaine lettuce, shredded (you can use any type of lettuce) 1 (15.5 oz) can…
I am reading the book “The Power of Play” written by David Elkind. The book discusses the importance of allowing our children to just be kids. Elkind describes the differences of play in children from infancy through the teenage years and into adulthood. He argues that in today’s modern world, there are far too many…
We are firm believers in helping our children get the recommended amount of sleep. I notice a huge difference when my kids are well rested. They are pleasant to be around, not as crabby and much more helpful. Our bedtime ritual starts after dinner. We play really hard for an hour to get the energy…
A budget is an extremely important tool to help you stay on top of your spending to ensure you do not go into debt. For those individuals who are already in debt, a budget will help put spending habits into perspective. Change is a lengthy and difficult process. It is common to feel hopeless, impossible…
One of my all time favorite comfort foods is simply pasta with a little pad of butter. It is so satisfying. 1/2 bag egg noodles or 1/2 box spaghetti noodles, cooked 4 tbsp butter 1 clove garlic, minced or 1/2 tsp garlic powder Salt and Pepper, to taste 1/2 c peas 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese…
I love fall. I love the smells. I love the crispness in the air. September reminds me of the Fall Apple Harvest Festival in Sebastopol, California. Â Just thinking about about their Apple Fritters makes my mouth water. Another fall/winter favorite of mine is Wassail. A blend of fruit juices and aromatic spices fills the room…
Today we made a sound wall. I am sure our neighbors are going to love us for it. My friend has been reading a book called Creative Families, by Amanda Blake Soule. One of the pages that caught friend’s attention and thought my kids would love was an idea called the sound wall. Interested, I…