Author: missalaneyus

  • Fashion, Fashion

    It’s that time of year when I begin wondering what I’ll be wearing next. Despite 30 degree weather, I start envisioning sandals, pedicures and bare legs. As soon as spring fashion magazines are in stores, I start stocking up, comparing trends and making lists. This year the list of trends I like is really long. Would anyone…

  • Amped Up Cocoa

    After a week of really perfect weather, actual February temperatures can seem blisteringly cold. It might be nice to warm yourself up with something special – a Mexican-inspired hot cocoa, for example. I had planned to share this recipe and technique with you last week, but thought you might not be so interested while frolicking…

  • Chicken Fried Rice

    When I was on my Food Matters kick, I learned a life-changing way to make fried rice via Mark Bittman. It’s simple, but the results are anything but. Just ask Ellie. Here, I’ve included a classic recipe with carrots and peas. I’ve also made it with mushrooms and red peppers, which was equally good. In…

  • Around Here

    Ellie spotted these ice skaters and after a few short minutes of watching tried to walk out on to the ice. Needless to say, we had to leave before she had any other big ideas. I have been cooking from this non-stop since getting it for Christmas. Making lunch has always stumped me, but this…

  • Guilty Pleasures: Romance Novels

    I don’t think we’ve talked about it here, because it’s not something I typically go around sharing with people, but I love romance novels. In my mind, they are the best escape from every day life. When I’m stressed or bogged down, nothing quite like a formulaic romance will take the edge off my day. Will…

  • Mexi-Carrots

    As soon as Ellie started eating dinner with us, I immediately started worrying about our vegetable intake. I mean really. Could I be more cliché? As far as vegetables go, Ellie is actually pretty responsive at this point, and I’m making the most of it while it lasts. The big problem we face is that…

  • Prints Charming

    Peter Pilotto introduced his capsule collection for Target on Sunday, and it is incredibly chic. The brand’s use of prints is flattering and playful. I picked up a long sleeve tee (shown above) and two skirts. The t-shirt is sure to be a wardrobe staple. I wore it as soon as I got home. It’s…

  • Fresh Paint

    I have always been a fan of bold lipstick, but have never been comfortable pulling it off. I’ve always felt my lips were too thin. Every few years, I buy a shade of red impulsively, try it on at home and then, keep it in the back of my make-up drawer for several years before…

  • Uncorked

    When you’re living inside a snowglobe, it’s important to have good wine. It helps you admire the view, while dulling the memory of your last visit to the grocery store. I actually avoided the obligatory stock up trip this time, but only because I called the hubby first. Despite the fact that I shop for my entire…

  • On My Bookshelf

    Lately, I’ve been reading up a storm. It has been wonderful. So has Ellie. Here she is reading her first romance novel. One of my favorite books was Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell. It’s about high school love and is told from each of the main characters’ points-of-view. The book is charming and nostalgic and…