Coffee Break

Every now and then I need a moment to vent or catch up. This is my coffee break for life. I actually love coffee and the fun gadgets that are available for home brewing and coffee creations. I am not a coffee snob- I like it hot, iced, tall, short, skinny or fat! I love trying different roasts and blends, my current favorite is the Hawaiian Kona blend. I also must confess that I am a cream and sweetener girl. I wish International Delight would bring back the Sweet Butter Cream (hint-hint)

I gave my favorite coffee mug to my sister (it went with a set of dishes) so I am currently on the hunt for a new one. I like the bigger mug style with the flaired lip but not too heavy- not too much to ask for, right? Above is the picture of my long gone mug, I have switched to the multi colored Fiesta Ware and have not found a coffee mug yet that blends with the style or colors. If you know of a great place to search for mugs, let me know. Until then I will patiently sip my coffee from my travel mug.

Wordless Wednesday

I love this picture of my daughter playing with her "first" chopsticks and pretend sushi roll that my sister got her for Christmas. My sister knows how much I love sushi and found a friend who made my daughter a play set that includes fish, maki rolls, wontons, chopsticks, and more all packed in a Chineese take out box. Love it!

Hanging on to the Holidays

Christmas has came and went... really? The movie trailer to this Christmas had me anticipating the "Best Christmas Ever!!" - but it was not much different than years past. People tend to get moody and even nasty in the weeks leading up to Christmas and for no really good reason. I suspect that they do not want to socialize with their own family or feel obligated to gift, well, ANYONE. Believe it or not, there are really people out there that would much rather hear finger nails scraping on a chalk board than to swap gifts with family.

I am not one of the bah humbuggers... I try to make it magical for my kids. We decorate the tree, put lights up outside, hang the stockings, and bake cookies for "Santa". I light pine scented candles to add to the Christmas ambiance. There are many community events and attractions for kids of all ages. The Lights Before Christmas at the zoo, visiting Santa at his house up town, and the various children's parties that occur for 2 weeks straight. It gets very exhausting! That is why I look forward to New Years- It is the ideal adult holiday that lets you unwind and refresh for the next year.

I love entertaining and socializing on New Year's Eve. Being with friends and laughing is much needed after all the hustle and bustle since Thanksgiving. We are planning on a sushi dinner again this New Years and hope many friends will join us. I have my heart set on some Playstation 3 Singstar and champagne to finish my night. I know there are plenty of events and parties being held on New Year's Eve in our area, but I would much rather enjoy the best food and settle in at home with close friends. There is always a table, no hassle parking, and no cover charge to entertain at home.

This being my last post for 2010, I would like to wish you all a happy New Year and hope 2011 is amazing for you!!

Try my holiday martini:

Festive Martini, 419 Style

*2 oz ginger ale
*1 oz Grand Marnier (or orange liqueur)
*1 oz Premium vodka

Mix in shaker with ice, strain, and pour into martini glass.
Garnish speared cranberries and orange twist. Cheers!!!