I asked my Mother how many cast iron skillets she has. And she replied “two.” One large black skillet she used for her specialty dishes and a small one that is used only for her cornbread. She told me of when her Dad gave her this skillet when she got married and every “pone” of cornbread that she has ever …
I don’t know about you, but I am always overwhelmed when a friend brings me a little “happy”—a token of our friendship. Receiving is usually difficult, as I prefer to be in the giving role, but is it wonderful to be remembered. Hostess gifts are the one thing I really struggle with. I am always looking for something unique to …
Who doesn’t love a good sale? I know I do. My sister, Janice, has the knack for finding the best sales and coming home with many things for pennies on the dollar. She has perfected the art! I, however, do not have the patience for combing through for the best price, incredible markdown, or clearance. Janice says it’s because I …
Summer produce is beginning to show up in farmers’ markets across the south, and as someone who enjoys cooking at home, I am delighted! Visiting farmers’ markets on lazy Saturday mornings is one of my favorite things to do during this time of year. It’s such a thrill to see all of the fresh, colorful offerings and imagine the possibilities for …
As our country prepares to observe another Memorial Day, I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday weekend. My heart goes out especially to all of those who have served our great nation. It is because of their sacrifice that we remain free. In spite of the challenges we’ve faced, and continue to face, we are still a blessed nation. …
The height of summer is a beautiful time where I live in Birmingham, Alabama. Gardens and farmers’ markets alike are alive with fresh produce and I’m always looking for new ways to use it all. The Summer issue of Bake From Scratch magazine is ripe with recipes celebrating the glorious bounty of the season, and I especially love all of …
Practicing gratitude in our daily lives is one of the best ways to create a joyful existence. Think about it. When you’re feeling appreciative of the people, places, and things in your life, there is a great sense of contentment and little room for negativity. We can all be more gracious in our day-to-day lives. Here are 10 ways we …
It’s very uncomfortable being at dinner when, out-of-nowhere, a topic not suitable for discussion at the table is introduced. What do you do? Well the old Southern rule of table topics is this: “No religion, no sex, and no politics.” (Today we could certainly add more to that list.) And my favorite rule is“Listen carefully, I don’t repeat gossip!” Dinner …
Sometimes I just need to read something to encourage me as a woman, mother, grandmother, and wife. One of my favorite books to read and re-read is Time Alive by Alexandra Stoddard. As you know she inspired the name of this blog because my dear friend always puts a ribbon in her books when she autographs them. Peeking out of …
I come from a long line of people who never throw anything away until we have exhausted all possible uses for something. There are probably three pairs of jeans in my closet that I am saving just in case I need to paint something. Not to mention the other jeans that are being saved in case I lose weight and …
