I love that cutting board. It's big, and it's pretty. I bought it in the gift shop of an art museum in Houston. I picked out four, choosing according to the kitchen colors of my mother, my mother-in-law, and my sisters-in-law. I didn't choose one for myself. I stood there a long time, trying to decide if I should. I loved them so much, but … [Read more...]

It was a good summer. Even though it started like this: That was the last day of school in June. I was pulling out of my alley, on my way to pick up kids, when my car died. I re-started it. It re-died. Another re-start. Another death. And then my 11yo, who was with me, said, "Mom, the car is smoking." What?? Now, here's where … [Read more...]

  Hubby cleaned the kitchen during our Whole House Overhaul last week. I knew he did a good job, and admired the uncluttered look of the countertops. But it wasn't until Tuesday (four days after he cleaned the kitchen), that I noticed my food processor was missing. Missing! Gone! Not in the place where it has been for … [Read more...]

As a born cheapskate, I was thrilled when a random Disney cast member (that's what they call everyone who works at Disney World, from dancers to floor-moppers) gave my kids each a Mickey straw. I was extra thrilled when I saw that they usually cost .59 cents each. Three kids times .59 cents - that's a $1.77 value, folks! But then we … [Read more...]

My oldest, a 7th grader, started playing football this year. At age 12, this is the fulfillment of his Life Dream. But it's different than he expected. Even though he knew what to expect. We'd talked to him about the realities he'd face. That practices were going to be hot, and hard. And not necessarily fun. He was as mentally … [Read more...]