Many empty nest couples ponder the idea of downsizing. As appealing as the idea may seem, the overwhelming immensity of the task can keep many couples from ever taking the first step. So, how can you — from a practical standpoint — get past the hurdle and actually downsize without losing your mind? My husband and I downsized by half this year. I’ll be the first to admit that we probably would have procrastinated for years if T had not {Read More}
How to Turn a Scarf into a Vest – diy
September 29, 2014 By
Vests are a great wardrobe investment to help transition into fall, and long vests are so popular this year. Now you can repurpose your favorite large scarf and turn it into a vest for fall! How to Turn a Scarf into a Vest First, lay out your pashmina or scarf with no folds. Next, fold the scarf in half, length wise. Then fold it width wise one more time. Now take the two corners at the top and tie {Read More}
Makeup Picks for the 50+ Woman
September 24, 2014 By
Having run out of several items in my makeup kit, I decided it’s about time to make sure I’m using the right products for my 50+ face. (I say 50+ because I’ll be 51 tomorrow!) So I headed to Sephora and found their top makeup expert to give me a “soft, day-look” makeover, focusing on products that would specifically benefit mature skin. {Note: I’m cringing at posting my before picture. First, my handy iPhone doesn’t take the best pics, so {Read More}
The Salsa That Took Me Years to Perfect
September 22, 2014 By
A girl doesn’t live in San Antonio, Texas, for 13 years without perfecting a quick and easy salsa recipe. I’m not boasting. I’m simply stating a fact about Texas girls! Right, my Texas girlfriends? So today I thought I’d share the salsa that took me years to perfect. It doesn’t get simpler or tastier! One factor that makes my salsa so quick to make is the handy dandy Nutribullet. In addition to smoothies, it’s perfect for making all kinds {Read More}
Glittered Pumpkin Centerpiece – diy
September 19, 2014 By
Here in the California desert, it doesn’t feel much like fall yet. So I’ve decided to celebrate autumn indoors with some fall decorations. This week I set out dress up the ordinary and make a glittered pumpkin centerpiece for our kitchen table. This is a pretty simple project you can complete in one an evening. Supplies from Michael’s (unless otherwise noted) -Decorative white pumpkin -Krylon Metalic gold paint -Loose gold glitter -Mod Podge -Krylon spray sealer -Martha Stewart Crafts pouncers {Read More}
Healthy, Gluten-Free, Paleo-Friendly Banana Bread
September 17, 2014 By
I love banana bread. Who doesn’t? But for years, it’s been on my “do not eat” list because of the flour and sugar. But now I can enjoy it again, guilt-free. And guess what? T likes it, too! This recipe is quick and easy to make. I usually slice it, freeze it and then warm it up when we want a piece. Give it a try. I bet your family won’t even taste the difference! Ingredients for Healthy, Gluten-Free, Paleo-Friendly {Read More}
New Empty Nester? Five Ways to Transition Well
September 15, 2014 By
The first few months of your empty nester season can easily define what your next ten years look like. New habits are quick to make and hard to break. Now’s the time to make sure you and your spouse start the season right! When I became an empty nester, I committed to start doing one thing in each category below. Does that sound overwhelming? Then just pick one or two! The important thing is to do it now… no procrastinating {Read More}
Must-Have, Fun, Fall Style
September 12, 2014 By
We’ve survived our first summer in the California desert. Well, we’ve ALMOST survived it. The heat isn’t leaving just yet. But that doesn’t mean I can’t start thinking of must-have, fun, fall style! My summer wardrobe here has mostly consisted of strapless dresses or shorts and a tank. I’m ready to expand my options! Here’s one look I’m going to try! 1/2/3/4/5/6 I’m a huge fan of mixing patterns, so the leopard sneakers combined with camo are perfect. The {Read More}
Trader Joe’s Quick & Healthy Family Dinner
September 11, 2014 By
My motto is that weeknight meals must be healthy, quick and simple. Weekends — not weeknights— are for more complicated and time-consuming recipes. When I want to grab something to fit my weeknight criteria, I head to Trader Joe’s. Today I chose Sausage & Peppers with Zoodles. You will love the simplicity of making this meal, and your family will love eating it! Quick & Healthy Family Dinner Ingredients 1 bag Trader Joe’s frozen Fire Roasted Peppers and Onions (also {Read More}
Manners with Mema
September 9, 2014 By
Sometime in the mid 1950s, my grandmother, Nancy Helm Weaks, self published a book: Dig These Crazy Manners! I don’t believe I ever saw it while she was still alive. Instead I found it as I sifted through the mementos of her life well lived after her funeral eight years ago. This little book is a GEM! Not only was Mema a clever writer and an expert on impeccable manners, she was also an illustrator and had beautiful handwriting. Mema {Read More}
