Books & Reading

Book Review: Beyond the Label by Maureen Chiquet

What labels do you wear? I’m not talking about Coach or Gucci or Channel, I’m talking about the labels others have given you. “Supermom” is one that’s been thrown around at me. “Wife,” “Mother,” “Type-A,” “Introvert,” “Neurotic,” are others. When we receive labels, it can be hard to break out of them. I know in …

Books & Reading

Book Review: The Compassionate Achiever by Christopher L. Kukk, Ph.D.

One of my other projects is a blog called “Activism My Way.” It’s a project I’m passionate about and that I’d love to work on more. I use the blog to encourage others to get involved in their communities and help others. I feel that being engaged in a community and doing service work is …

Books & Reading

Book Review: 1001 Ways to Slow Down by Barbara Ann Kipfer

#73 “Look at beautiful photography.” #235 “Remember, life is funny.” #551 “If you are always ahead of schedule, then there is no need to rush.” #831 “Take control of the information overload. What do you really want to read, reply to, or watch on TV?” #900 “Sit quietly with a blank canvas or notebook. Wait …

Games & Hobbies

Sofilantjes’ Silva Top and Tunic

It’s another new pattern release from Sofilantjes! If you can’t tell, I’m a big fan of the patterns – both because the instructions are clear and because the fashion is fabulous. The Sylva Top and Tunic*  has a lot of fun options for you to customize and play with color and different prints. I tested the Sylva …

Books & Reading

TLC Tours Book Review: All Summer Long by Dorothea Benton Frank

As long-time blog readers know, two years ago come July, we moved from Northern California to Southeastern Kansas. What a transition that has been! While I do get homesick, I also really enjoy how family-friendly Wichita has been and how much further a dollar goes here than in California. Life is also not quite so …

strawberry cake on white ceramic plate beside the champange glass
Food & Drink

The Secrets of Pairing Wine and Chocolate

There are fewer pleasures to the culinary palate than the combination of great wine and chocolate. Whether the occasion is a romantic evening with a special loved one or an after-dinner treat, pairing these two flavorful options is a mouthwatering experience. The key, however, to successfully combining a chocolate confection with fine wine – while …