Modernism Week – A Designer’s Delight

  Those who have enjoyed the grandeur that is Palm Springs, California, will attest to its sunny warmth, paradise-worthy weather and the brilliance of its authentic desert style.  Add to this a magical conglomeration of innovative work by superb artists, set against the backdrop of exquisite, color-filled natural landscapes, native palm trees swaying in the wind and the majesty of the San Jacinto Mountains in the distance, you have the award-winning recipe for the spectacular Modernism Week.  This annual event genially showcases where mid-century architecture, fashion, art, and design meet contemporary ideas and thinking; it is an understatement to merely suggest that it is a designer’s dream to attend.  The impressiveness of this extraordinary event, however, extends far beyond … [Read more...]

10 Dips You Must Try

With football playoffs right around the corner there is one thing I'm focused one - the food!  I bet you thought I was going to say the game, huh?  Don't get me wrong, I like football, but not for the game itself.  I love football!  The dips, the appetizers, the wings!  It's all so glorious that I even pretend to watch the actual game when its on.  I hope you are a football food lover too because I have 10 dips you must try! 1. Margherita Pizza Dip // This dip is like your favorite pizza, but cheesier!  So full of flavor that no one will remember the game is even on. 2. Creamy Parmesan Basil Dip // Probably one of the fastest dips to make, this creamy Parmesan basil dip will bring all football fans together. 3. Black Eyed Pea Dip // Even though this dip looks healthy for you, … [Read more...]

Amazing Life Lessons From Board Games

Who doesn’t love all the benefits of a good old-fashioned board game? Board games are perfect for a little indoor fun as the weather gets cooler and on rainy days. They provide hours of entertainment and are wonderful ‘educational tools’. Yes, they make everyone a little smarter! And to top it off, they offer lots of family bonding-without screens. Top Life Lessons Learned: Taking Turns – Let’s face it, it can be tough for kids to take turns. Board games teach you to be patient as you wait for your opponent’s next move. Commitment – Keep going and don’t give up! A simple game such as Monopoly teaches commitment and perseverance. Stay committed, even if times get tough. Things can turn with time! Focus & Concentration – Study the situation and focus! Operation takes a … [Read more...]

5 Benefits of Summer Activity Books

Ready to turn off the television, put away the iPhone and iPad, and get back to basics with activity books? Activity books are my go-to resource to minimize my kids’ screen time and to feel confident that they are learning new skills. There is something wonderful about relieving stress, re-charging the brain and sparking inspiration. All you need is an inviting activity book and the benefits are countless! Here are my five reasons why you should break out summer activity books: Boredom buster (without technology) Simple markers, pencils and pens along with activity pages offer hours of entertainment. As a busy parent, there’s something refreshing and guilt-free about bringing out tried-and-true workbooks. Travel friendly These books can be thrown in the backseat, in a … [Read more...]

DIY Hostess Gifts for the Holidays

Have you ever been invited to a Holiday party and felt like you should bring a gift to the hostess? Whether you're thinking small scale or spendy, a hostess gift is a kind gesture to let her know you appreciate her invitation and hard work in preparing for the event. You could take a bottle of wine, a candle or a home baked basket of goodies. No matter what gift you choose, it will be special to the recipient. {Not many people give hostess gifts these days.} What if you saved yourself the time and travel to the store and made a hostess gift? The money would be less spent. Most importantly, DIY gifts are often times the very most special...and rarely forgotten. Today I've gathered 9 of my favorite hostess gift ideas that you can use throughout the holidays. /1/ Homemade Body Scrub - … [Read more...]

12 Cool FROZEN Party Ideas

"Do you want to build a snowman?" Something tells me you've heard that movie line approximately 85,457 times in the last few months. If you have children, especially little girls, you've had the song Let it Go on repeat for weeks. You can quote Olaf's famous line, "Hi. I'm Olaf and I like warm hugs." Why? Because Disney's Frozen is the HOTTEST movie for kids of all ages right now! As a matter of fact, Frozen took home the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film. Frozen will be released on Blu-Ray and DVD on March 18. Why not host a viewing party and invite a bunch of friends over to enjoy it with you? Food, friends, family, fun AND Frozen!! Today I've gathered a bunch of great ideas to help spark your imagination for the best party ever. /1/ Frozen Party Snack Table - Every party needs … [Read more...]