My Snow Storm Diet

Since the great snowpocalypse started, I have been on a mission to use a lot of the items we've had in the freezer and pantry. Let's face it there's nothing like fresh baked goods on a cold winter day.

First, on the snowpocalypse diet was banana bread. I have been using this recipe consistently and always have the best results. Sometimes I add a quarter cup of chopped walnuts if we have them on hand.

Next, I made Paula Deen's Garlic Cheese Biscuits. I used bisquick instead of the Paula Deen biscuit mix. The biscuits still turned out very well and were buttery deliciousness. Seriously, Paula is the queen of comfort food and they were a great compliment to the shrimp chowder Van picked up for lunch.

Then I made brownies from scratch using this recipe. This was the first time that I have attempted to make brownies without a mix and I was pretty pleased with the result. They weren't overly sweet and were really cakey. I especially liked them with the Ben and Jerry's S'mores ice cream Van picked out.

I'm really hoping the snow ends soon. My snowpocalypse diet isn't exactly helping on the weight loss front.

Domestic Diva

I took a few days off work to rest and recoup after our big event. I have really loved my time off. After catching up on all of the housework, I was able to spend some time working on some holiday craft projects. I am really excited for our first Christmas in our house.

A few years ago, I purchased all the materials to make the Martha Stewart jingle bell wreath. I finally put everything together and I am pleased with the results. Now all I have to do is find a place to hang it!


This is the first year that we are going to get a Christmas tree for our house. I attempted to paint these clear ornaments. I think I have finally figured out the proper technique, but they didn't turn out too badly for a first try.

Thanks, Giada!

I made Giada's Spaghetti with Pinot Grigio and Seafood from the Everyday Pasta cookbook last weekend. It was awesome and as you can tell it made way more than Van and I could eat in one sitting. I substituted fresh baby spinach for the arugula, but otherwise kept everything the same. I will definitely make this again.

Another Reason I Love Target

I found these cute little lanterns at Target today in the special seasonal /dollar section. I added a tealight candle in each one and they have a spooky little glow. They will be perfect on our front steps for trick-or-treat. Of course, the best part is that I can use them again next year!

After Months of Searching...

After months of searching for drapes for our living room, we found this fabric online over the weekend. I hope that we still like it when we see it in-person. Now I just have to get a sewing machine so I can actually make the curtains - baby steps!

Friday Night Lights

We went to Coastal Flats last Friday for drinks and we were surprised with a fabulous view of fireworks. What a good way to unwind from a stressful week!

Pool Days

It's officially summer in DC. It was like 90 degrees and humid today. Welcome to summer! At least I was able to enjoy one of the best things about our new house -- the pool!

I made my first official visit to our community pool last Sunday and it was the perfect way to start my summer!