The days following rainfall here in San Diego are always my favorite. The pavement is cooled, grass is lush, and the temperature is perfect. We went out in the backyard today to feel the fresh air and as I rounded the corner the most…
Since I’ve been intensely planning a trip for the past couple of days, I put myself in vacation mode a bit early with the most amazing cocktail and I have to share the recipe! It’s a creamy drink served hot that’s perfect for the…
One of the biggest struggles that I have had as a new mom is finding time. Finding time for bubble baths, reading a good book, working out, and cooking a delicious meal isn’t always easy, but the responsibility still stands to create a happy and…
“Want to soak up life for a while in laid-back mode. No boss, no clock, no stress, no dress code.” I’m channeling me some Kenny Chesney today with a little No Shirt, No Shoes, No Problems. (Except the shirt part, because no one wants…
I’m almost done planning Fox’s birthday and let me tell you, I’m so glad it falls on the big game day. This football theme is easy peasy! As I was firming up the menu I landed on a football party staple: chili. You may know…
Fox’s first birthday lands on the big game day, so we are planning a family party (relatives will be flying in from Northern California, New York, and North Carolina!) to celebrate our little guy during festivities. Lots of family and football equates to one thing:…
Over the holidays I talked a lot about my family’s deep rooted traditions and recipes, which brought up a thought that never crossed my mind before: I’m unconsciously failing at creating my own traditions. I’m now on a mission to start our own activities…
Truth be told, I’ve never made a resolution for New Year’s before. I’m your textbook Virgo: meticulous, analytical, productive. I’ve always been on top of my goals and the deadlines I set for myself are achieved with ease. Then came parenthood. So my sweet little…
Happy Monday everyone! I had a busy weekend filled with friends, cooking, and making big plans. Tyler’s 31st birthday is tomorrow and we are heading to Disneyland for a couple days, but before we hit the road I want to let you know about a…
It’s Cyber Monday and I am combing the Internet for deals on cold weather clothes. If you’re a frequent reader you’re probably thinking, “Um, you live in California – why would you need those?” And the answer is simple: for the first time in six…
The day after Thanksgiving always marks the day that we put up our “family” Christmas tree. We love the holiday season around here so we technically have two trees – one that goes up pretty much right after Halloween that’s more for show (white lights,…
Let me start off with a disclaimer by stating that I come from a big Italian family. Expressive conversations, loads of food, and warm greetings litter my memories of childhood. I was lucky enough to spend a significant amount of time during the day with…
Something funny happens when you get older. People tend to move away, get married and have children – everything changes. So when the holidays roll around it’s always interesting to see how deep-seated traditions stir into new ones. I’ve mentioned in past posts that…
When I was small, our Christmas tree went up the day after Thanksgiving without fail. The boxes were brought down from the attic and my family spent the day unwrapping ornaments from bubble wrap and newspaper, reminiscing about when and where they were purchased. We…
Entertaining Featured Food
Easy Balsamic Glazed Penne with Sundried Tomatoes, Basil, and Goat Cheese
When it comes to the holidays I put my focus one place: family. Our traditions have deep roots and I look forward to them each and every year. Some of these include, but are not limited to, making up our own lines to the…