Sara's Sweet Surprise

Some of you may recall me mentioning that I was a Regular on American Bandstand in the 197o's. I would feel re-missed had I not shared a few memories of Dick Clark who was a concement professional that treated us teens with the utmost of respect. He may have ran a tight ship, but he always made time to engage with us in between takes. He'd always make sure we were well cared for by his staff. There's a specific occasion that always comes to mind. One common fear amongst us teens was.....having an embarrassing moment on camera. Without immunity this fear came to fruition for me. As the cameras were rolling...I was dancing on the riser next to the podium where Dick Clark stood. Just as the camera panned over to me..... I tripped on a snag in the linoleum floor. I looked at my partner with a panic stricken face, feeling myself free falling to the ground, ( my heart was racing at the horrible thought filming might be halted over my fumble). I tried despe...

When I look out my window at this dreary day, it's hard to believe it will soon be overflowing with shades of pink, red, blue and purple. Along with my love of roses..... my most favored flower are peonies. Sadly it's hit or miss whether or not the rain will wash the blooms away before I can enjoy them. So, on those rare sunny days I harvest as many as I can gather. You can imagine the abundance of peony arrangements that overtake every nook and cranny of my home. With bated breath I wait their arrival. But, until then.....I hit my stash to find a few reminders of whats to come. A glass door knob, faux flowers and a bit of lace is all I need. Enhancing my (faux) flowers with a little spritz. I have a collection of scented sprays..... rose, lavender or gardenia water. Voila! A spring bouquet has bloomed!

Here's the story of how a lil' heart got it's big start. The New England Confectionery Company (NECCO) debuted their Sweethearts Conversation Hearts in the 1800s. Originally called "motto hearts," their precursor was a trendy fortune cookie-like treat sold during the Civil War called a "cockle," which had printed phrases rolled up inside its scallop-shaped shell. Printing words directly on the candy was the bright idea of Daniel Chase, the brother of NECCO's founder. He also invented the machine that both pressed red vegetable coloring on the candy dough and cut the shapes. The new candies were a hit, especially wedding-day versions with sayings like: "Married in Pink, He will take to drink," and "Married in white, You have chosen right." At the turn of the last century, NECCO "Conversation Motto s" were even produced in shapes like watches, horseshoes, and baseballs. Many of the original sayings, like "Be Good,...

There are two irresistible temptations that I just can't refuse. Hot baked bread is the first and to no surprise chocolate is the second. But when you combine these two taste sensations together...... it's a taste bud explosion that calls my name. Which I eagerly comply without hesitation. Pain au Chocolat (French pronunciation ) Chocolate Bread (English translation) I created a shortcut to achieving this chocolate delight. So, here is my easy recipe that will be a delightful treat for anyone's special Valentine. What you'll need is a can (any size), labeled removed, washed/dried and generously greased. Rhodes frozen Texas rolls. One package of your favorite chocolate chips. Here's the method: Defrost rolls just until thawed, but not rising. Layer dough balls in the bottom of the can alternating with a layer of chocolate chips, repeating until you've reached half way from the top. This will allow room for the dough to rise to the top without spilling o...

I do realize for many of us Christmas remnants are still floating around so.... the idea of Valentines Day is not on the horizon. But, my new years resolution is to focus on getting my ideas for gifts or DIY projects to you well in advance. Which in the past I've had many to share that were left to the last minute or more often not posted at all. With that thought....I wanted to share a particular after Christmas sale that will give a jump start to Valentines Day. DARK CHOCOLATE MINT MINT CHOCOLATE Bath & Body Works is having a phenomenal after Christmas sale on their candles (in store and online). Although that may not be news to most. Have you given thought to them as a gift for Valentine's day? I for one am looking away from sugary sweets. I'm leaning towards alternatives for myself and those I know who have diet restrictions or have made a weight lost resolution . One of the things I miss when trying to cut down on baking or indulging in sweets i...