What's for dinner?

Tonight I tried a new recipe from The Pioneer Woman called the "Favorite Burger Ever".  My family really liked it. The caramelized red onions were my favorite. The boys had to add extra tabasco sauce for added hotness. After my son downed two burgers he said "Mom, that was your fourth great dinner in  7 years. I think that's a compliment.

What I'm loving today

On Saturday I went to a scrapbooking crop and they had this cute button bouquet at a silent auction. It is so fun. I love red, and there are some unique old buttons, the best thing is that these flowers will last a long time. Oh, and they also jiggle. Now I just want to make more.

without brownies...

I am not sure when or how it started, but every Sunday night I make brownies. I use my Mom's recipe because it is comfort food. These brownies are cake like, and usually taste better the next day. We have had a string of unsuccessful Sunday dinners around here (new recipes, bland, tough, generally unappetizing). None of that seems to matter if my family knows they can have brownies later. My saving grace! 

life's lessons

I just finished reading "Tuesdays with Morrie." I love books that make you think. This book made me think about the quality of my life. I asked myself the question "Am I being the person I want to be?" I liked what Morrie said about our culture, "the culture we have does not make people feel good about themselves. We're teaching the wrong things. And you have to be strong enough to say if the culture doesn't work, don't buy it." It was a good book to read before a new year. Next time I am tempted to flip someone off while driving, I will try to remember to smile and wave. 

Christmas card attempt

This was the card that should have been sent to family and friends to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Blame it on Boo, we couldn't get him to look at the camera instead of us.

Woman's best friend

Who is my best helper when it comes to loading the dishwasher? Boo-that's who! Every time I unload the dishwasher he comes and waits patiently until I start to load in some dirty dishes and then he helps with the rinsing process. The downside? I am sure the extra 75 pounds of pressure on the door isn't adding to its longevity.

O Christmas Tree

The other day I was sad because everyone doesn't like Christmas as much as I do. I thought, "You don't have to like Christmas as much as I do... but don't ruin it for me!" The next day I got our Christmas tree out. No one was home so I blasted the Christmas carols and spent hours decorating the tree. The theme of the tree is basically sugar, so how could I not be happy. My favorite decorations are the little candy elves. They look so happy with their peppermint stick stockings and ice cream cone hats. So now I know the cure for any Bah humbug feelings I get this season. Put up more decorations! String a few more lights! Buy a few more Christmas carols on itunes!